Mounting device for a metal roof

ABSTRACT

A mounting device or clamp is provided that can be secured to a roof joint without damaging the roof joint. Two roof panels can be joined at a roof joint that extends away from the roof. The clamp has a body with a slot to receive the roof joint. An insert of the clamp is rotatable relative to the body from a first position to a second position. The clamp body can be positioned over the roof joint, and the insert can rotate or pivot from the first position to the second position relative to the body to secure the clamp to the roof joint. In one embodiment, a body of the clamp has a first arm that is concave and the insert has a concave portion to engage the roof joint. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the insert can be connected to the clamp body such that either a first projection or a second projection of the insert faces a roof joint.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/203,481, filed on Mar. 16, 2021, which issued as U.S. Pat. No.11,352,793 on Jun. 7, 2022, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/990,160, filedMar. 16, 2020, and to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.62/990,161, filed Mar. 16, 2020, which are each incorporated herein intheir entirety by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to mounting devices or clamps forsecuring structures to a roof or sidewall of a building.

BACKGROUND

Metal panels are increasingly used to construct parts of buildings suchas roofs and sidewalls. During construction, adjacent panels areconnected at joints, which are weatherproof and protect the buildingfrom the external environment. One type of joint is a standing seamjoint that extends or protrudes away from the main surfaces of thepanels. The standing seam mechanically joins two adjacent metal panels.These seamed joints may have many different configurations, including asingle fold, double fold, snap seam, snap lock, nail strip, batten cap,T seam, and bulb seam. Some roof joints, including bulb seams, aretypically slidably connected to an underlying halter or clip, such thatthe roof joint “floats” on the underlying support such as a halter orclip.

It is often desirable to install various types of structures such asheating units, air conditioning units, ventilation equipment, solarpanels, etc. on these joints, particularly roofjoints. These structurescan be secured to the roof joints with fasteners. However, installingstructures on roof joints in a manner that punctures the roof joint witha hole at one or more locations is undesirable. Puncturing the roofjoint with a hole presents leakage and corrosion issues for the roof,and holes in the roof joint are aesthetically displeasing. Further,forming holes through the roof may void a warranty of the roof providedby the manufacturer.

Mounting devices can provide a location for these structures to mount toa roof. Typically, a mounting device is secured to a roof joint withoutpuncturing the roof joint, and then a structure is connected to themounting device. These mounting devices can be secured to the roof bysqueezing a seamed joint between two roof panels or another feature thatextends away from the roof. U.S. Pat. No. 7,013,612 (“the '612 patent”),which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes amulti-piece clamp which engages a bulb seam roof joint and includes aseam fastener that is driven into a vertical sidewall of the bulb seamroof. While a mounting device may squeeze or pinch seams such as asingle fold or double fold to secure the mounting device to the seamwithout negative effects, it is undesirable for a mounting device tosqueeze a bulb seam roofjoint (or other roof joint that is installed ona support such as a halter or clip) to an extent that it is no longerable to float on the support. Moreover, crushing the bulb of a roofjoint can damage the integrity of the roof joint, potentially allowingmoisture and other external elements through the roof and into thebuilding. Damaging the integrity of the roof joint can also makereplacement or disassembly of the roofjoint and/or roof panels moredifficult.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a mounting device orclamp that secures to a roof joint without pinning the roof joint to anunderlying support such as a halter or clip, without crushing theroofjoint, and without forming a hole or penetrating the roof, whileproviding a location to connect a structure to the roofjoint. The clampcomprises an insert that rotates relative to a body where each of theinsert and the body have an arm that extends around the terminal portionof the roof joint and grabs the roof joint underneath a distal end of asupport over which the roof joint is installed. Distal ends of the armscan lock into place below a maximum diameter or dimension of the roofjoint and secure the clamp to the body of the roof joint without pinningthe roof joint to the underlying support.

The clamp body includes an aperture for a bar component, such as athreaded fastener or a set screw. The aperture is oriented such that abar component advanced through the aperture will only engage a portionof the insert and such that the bar component will not contact the roofjoint or other portions of the building surface. As the bar component isadvanced against the insert, the insert will rotate relative to theclamp body.

According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, aclamp is provided that has an insert with a protrusion rotatablydisposed in a recess of a body. In one configuration, the protrusion andthe recess have circular cross-sectional shapes to promote the rotationof the protrusion within the recess. In addition, the protrusion canhave a width that is greater than an opening of the recess to hold theprotrusion in the recess. Therefore, to assemble the insert and thebody, the protrusion slides into the recess along an axis of rotation.During installation of the clamp to a roof joint, the insert rotatesrelative to the body from a first position to a second position, whichsecures the clamp to the roof joint.

According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, aclamp is provided where the protrusion of the insert is offset from atleast one edge of an upper surface of the insert to limit rotation ofthe insert relative to a body of the clamp. A protrusion of the insertcan rotate within a recess of the body, and the insert can have an uppersurface that is oriented toward the body. This upper surface can besubstantially planar in some embodiments. The protrusion extends fromthis upper surface, and the protrusion can be offset from one or bothedges of the upper surface when viewed in cross section or from an end.As a result, the offset from one edge defines a portion of the insertthat ultimately contacts the body to limit rotation of the insert in onedirection. Similarly, the offset from the opposing edge defines aportion of the insert that ultimately contacts the body to limitrotation of the insert in the other direction. Therefore, the offsetsand described portions of the insert can prevent the insert fromrotating too far relative to the body, which may help to prevent theclamp from crushing a roofjoint. In various embodiments, the offset andthe limit of rotation can coincide with a first position or a secondposition of the insert as described herein. Alternatively, the offsetcan limit the rotation of the insert to other positions.

According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, eachof the body and the insert has an arm adapted to extend around aterminal portion of a roof joint (e.g., the bulb seam portion of theroof joint) without damaging the cross-sectional shape of the roofjoint. Each arm can extend around the roofjoint seam such that each armis set off from the surface of the roof joint seam, and thus, the armsfloat around the roof joint seam (which, in turn, floats on theunderlying halter, clip, or other support). However, it will beappreciated that the present disclosure encompasses further embodiments,for instance, where the arms conform to and contact the outer surface ofthe roof joint seam without affecting the integrity of the roof joint.Each arm can extend along a line that has a radius of curvature, whenviewed in cross section, to substantially match an exterior surface of aroof joint seam with a circular or bulb shape. Distal ends of each armcan turn inward to retain the clamp on the roof joint by contacting orpartially deforming the roof joint underneath the seam thereof (but notso much that the roof joint is pinned to the underlying support), tosecure the clamp to the roof joint. As the insert moves from a firstposition to a second position relative to the body of the clamp, thedistance between the distal ends is reduced to secure the clamp to theroof joint without crushing the roof joint.

According to at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, aclamp is provided that has an insert with a deformable surface tofurther secure the insert and a body of the clamp together. Thedeformable surface can be located on an upper surface of the insert.Alternatively, in another embodiment, the deformable surface ispositioned on an outer surface of the insert. A bar component such as abolt or set screw may be advanced through the body to contact thedeformable surface of the insert. The distal end of the bar component isthen partially embedded into the deformable surface. As a result, theinsert cannot move relative to the body along the axis of rotation.

One particular embodiment of the present disclosure is a clamp systemfor a roof, comprising: a support that extends to a distal end (or head)having a larger width or diameter than a body of the support, thesupport comprising at least one recess between the distal end and thebody; at least one roof panel portion positioned over the at least onerecess; a clamp body having a first arm that extends to a first distalend and having a clamp recess that extends along an axis; and a clampinsert having a second arm that extends to a second distal end andhaving a protrusion that rotates within the clamp recess of the clampbody. The clamp insert can rotate relative to the clamp body about theaxis from a first position to a second position where at least one ofthe distal ends of the clamp body and the clamp insert extends into theat least one recess to secure the clamp body and the clamp insert overthe at least one roof panel portion without fixing a position of the atleast one roof panel portion relative to the support.

In some embodiments, the at least one recess comprises a first recessand a second recess between the distal end and the body. Optionally, thefirst and second recesses are positioned on opposing sides of thesupport. In various embodiments, the at least one roof panel portioncomprises a first roof panel portion positioned over the first recessand a second roof panel portion positioned over the second recess.Accordingly, when the clamp insert is in the second position, the firstdistal end of the first arm extends into the first recess, and thesecond distal end of the second arm extends into the second recess. Insome embodiments, at least one of the distal ends of the clamp body andthe clamp insert extends into the at least one recess and partiallydeforms the at least one roof panel portion.

In various embodiments, the clamp system further comprises an aperturethat extends through the clamp body in a direction that is nonparallelwith the axis of the clamp recess. A bar component can be positioned inthe aperture to extend through the aperture to rotate the clamp insertfrom the first position to the second position. The aperture is formedthrough the clamp body such that a bar component advanced through theaperture will only contact the insert without entering a receiving spaceof the clamp or contacting the at least one roof panel portion.

In some embodiments, the clamp insert has a deformable surface that thebar component deforms to maintain a position of the clamp insertrelative to the clamp body along the axis. In various embodiments, thedeformable surface extends over a channel in the clamp insert, and thebar component deforms a portion of the deformable surface at leastpartially into the channel. In some embodiments, the protrusion of theinsert has a width that is greater than a width of an opening of theclamp recess to secure the protrusion within the clamp recess.

Another particular embodiment of the present disclosure is a clamp,comprising: (1) a body having a first arm that extends to a first distalend and a recess that extends along an axis, the recess having anopening with a first width; (2) an insert having a second arm thatextends to a second distal end and having a protrusion positionablewithin the recess of the body, the protrusion having a diameter that isgreater than the first width of the opening to hold the protrusionwithin the recess, and such that the insert can rotate relative to thebody about the axis from a first position to a second position to reducea distance between the distal ends of the arms; and (3) an aperture thatextends through the body to receive a bar component that can apply aforce to the insert to rotate the insert from the first position to thesecond position.

In one configuration, the aperture is oriented along an axis that doesnot intersect a receiving space of the clamp. Alternatively, in anotherembodiment, the aperture is oriented at an angle that intersects thereceiving space.

In one embodiment, the first arm has a first inner surface that isconcave or arcuate. Additionally, or alternatively, the second arm canhave a second inner surface that is concave or arcuate.

In some embodiments, the protrusion of the insert has a circularcross-sectional shape that complements a circular cross-sectional shapeof the recess. In various embodiments, the first arm extends along aline that has a radius of curvature, and the second arm extends along aline that has a radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the first andsecond arms define a receiving space with a substantially circularcross-sectional shape. In various embodiments, the first distal end ofthe first arm extends into a receiving space defined by the first andsecond arms. Additionally, or alternatively, in another embodiment, thesecond distal end of the second arm optionally extends into thereceiving space.

In some embodiments, the aperture extends through the body in adirection that is nonparallel to the axis of the recess. In variousembodiments, the body comprises a substantially planar upper surface. Inone embodiment, the upper surface is substantially perpendicular to adirection that the aperture extends through the body.

In some embodiments, the insert has an upper surface that defines anedge, wherein the protrusion extends from the upper surface and isoffset from the edge by a predetermined distance. In variousembodiments, the offset of the protrusion from the edge defines a stopportion that limits rotation of the insert relative to the body in onedirection to the second position.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert extends from a neck ofthe insert and has a circular cross-sectional shape that complements acircular cross-sectional shape of the recess. The neck has a secondwidth that is less than the first width. Optionally, the neck extendsfrom a shoulder of the second arm that has a third width that is greaterthan the protrusion diameter.

In one embodiment, the first inner surface of the first arm has a firstradius of curvature. The second arm has a second inner surface which isconcave with a second radius of curvature. Optionally, the first andsecond radii of curvature are approximately equal.

In one embodiment, the first and second arms define a receiving spacewith a substantially circular cross-sectional shape to extend around thebulb seam.

The body may further comprise a leg positioned opposite to the firstarm. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the aperture extends through theleg and the aperture axis is approximately perpendicular to the rotationaxis of the recess. The rotation axis may be about perpendicular tofirst and second ends of the body.

In one embodiment, the body comprises a substantially planar uppersurface that is approximately parallel to the aperture axis. Optionally,a first portion of a lower surface of the body positioned between theleg and the recess opening is oriented at an oblique angle relative tothe upper surface to facilitate rotation of the insert away from thefirst arm.

In some embodiments, the insert may further comprise: (a) a neckconnecting the protrusion to the second arm; (b) an upper surface of thesecond arm extending from a first side of the neck; (c) an outer surfaceof the second arm extending from the upper surface to the second distalend; (d) a finger of the second arm extending from the second distalend; (e) a second inner surface of the second arm extending from thefinger, the second inner surface being concave; and (f) a stop portionof the second arm extending from the second inner surface to a secondside of the neck.

In one embodiment, the stop portion limits rotation of the insertrelative to the body in one direction to the second position. The stopportion may be oriented at a non-parallel angle relative to the uppersurface of the insert.

Yet another particular embodiment of the present disclosure is a clampsystem, comprising: (1) a body with: (a) a first arm that extends from afirst side of the body to a first distal end and which includes a firstinner surface that is concave; (b) a leg that extends from a second sideof the body; (c) an aperture that extends through the leg along anaperture axis; and (d) a recess positioned between the first innersurface and the leg and that extends along a rotation axis; (2) aninsert with: (a) a protrusion that is configured to rotate within therecess of the body; and (b) a second arm that extends to a second distalend and which includes a second inner surface that is concave, thesecond inner surface positionable facing the first inner surface, theinsert being rotatable relative to the body about the rotation axis froma first position to a second position to reduce a distance between thedistal ends of the arms; and (3) a bar component extendable through theaperture to engage the insert and rotate the insert from the firstposition to the second position.

The insert may include a deformable portion. In various embodiments, thedeformable portion comprises a channel that extends into the insert, andthe bar component deforms at least one edge of the channel. In someembodiments, the deformable portion comprises a channel recess thatextends into the insert from a center portion of the channel to alocation underneath the at least one edge to facilitate deformation ofthe at least one edge.

In various embodiments, the aperture has an internal thread, the barcomponent has an outer thread that complements the internal thread ofthe aperture, and the bar component rotates relative to the body to passthrough the aperture and rotate the insert from the first position tothe second position.

In some embodiments, the protrusion has a width that is greater than awidth of an opening of the recess to hold the protrusion within in therecess.

In one embodiment, the first arm has a first inner surface that isconcave or arcuate. Additionally, or alternatively, in anotherembodiment, the second arm has a second inner surface that is concave orarcuate.

In one embodiment the body further comprises: (i) an inner surface ofthe leg that extends from an end of the leg toward an upper surface ofthe body; (ii) a first lower portion extending from the inner surface toa first side of an opening of the recess, the first lower portionoriented at an oblique angle relative to the upper surface and the innersurface; and (iii) a second lower portion extending away from a secondside of the opening, the second lower portion oriented approximatelyparallel to the upper surface.

Additionally, or alternatively, the insert may further comprise: (i) aneck connecting the protrusion to the second arm; (ii) an upper surfaceof the second arm extending from a first side of the neck; and (iii) astop portion of the second arm extending from a second side of the neckto the second inner surface, the stop portion configured to engage thesecond lower portion of the body to stop rotation of the insert towardthe first arm.

A further particular embodiment of the present disclosure is a clampconfigured to engage a bulb seam of a building surface, comprising: (1)a body having an upper surface, a lower surface, a first arm thatprojects from the lower surface and extends to a first distal end, and arecess extending into the lower surface and that extends along arotation axis from a first end to a second end of the body; (2) aninsert having a second arm that extends to a second distal end, ashoulder, a neck extending from the shoulder, and a protrusion extendingfrom the neck, the protrusion rotatable within the recess of the bodysuch that the insert is rotatable relative to the body about therotation axis from a first position to a second position to reduce adistance between the distal ends of the arms, the shoulder having afirst upper surface on a first side of the neck which defines a stopportion of the insert that limits rotation of the insert toward thefirst arm; and (3) an aperture that extends through the body to receivea bar component to engage the insert and rotate the insert from thefirst position to the second position.

In one embodiment, the stop portion limits rotation of the insert to thesecond position by contact with the lower surface of the body.Optionally, the stop portion defines a plane that is nonparallel to asecond upper surface of the shoulder positioned on a second side of theneck.

The body may further comprise a leg that projects from the lowersurface. In one embodiment, the aperture extends from an exteriorsurface of the leg to an inner surface of the leg.

The aperture may extend along an aperture axis that is oriented aboutperpendicular to the exterior surface of the leg.

In one embodiment, the insert comprises a deformable portion with achannel that extends into the insert, the deformable portion alignablewith the aperture such that the bar component advanced through theaperture will contact the deformable portion.

The bar component may be advanced through the aperture to deform thedeformable portion to maintain a position of the insert relative to thebody along the axis. In various embodiments, the bar component deformsat least one edge of the channel. The channel may include a recess thatextends under the at least one edge of the channel to define a flange.Accordingly, as the bar component is advanced through the body the barcomponent contacts the flange and deforms or pushes the flange into therecess of the channel.

In another embodiment, the first arm has a first inner surface that isconcave and the second arm has a second inner surface that is concave,the first and second inner surfaces defining a receiving space that hasa generally cylindrical shape with openings at first and second ends ofthe clamp.

In some embodiments, the stop portion limits rotation of the insert tothe second position. In various embodiments, the protrusion has a widththat is greater than a width of an opening of the recess to hold theprotrusion within the recess.

In one embodiment, the aperture extends from an upper surface to a lowersurface of the body. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the bodyincludes a leg and the aperture extends from an exterior surface of theleg to an interior surface of the leg. In some embodiments, an uppersurface of the body is substantially perpendicular to a direction thatthe aperture extends through the body.

In one embodiment, the first arm has a first inner surface that isconcave or arcuate. Additionally, or alternatively, the second arm canhave a second inner surface that is concave or arcuate.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a method of securing a clampto a roof joint, comprising: (1) positioning a body of the clampproximate to the roof joint, the body having an upper surface, a lowersurface, an aperture extending through the body, a first arm thatprojects from the lower surface and extends along a first side of theroof joint, and a recess formed in the lower surface that extends from afirst end to a second end of the body; (2) positioning a protrusion ofan insert within the recess such that a second arm of the insert extendsproximate to a second side of the roof joint; and (3) advancing a barcomponent through the aperture into engagement with the insert such thatthe protrusion rotates within the recess and the second arm rotates froma first position to a second position to reduce a distance between afirst distal end of the first arm and a second distal end of the secondarm.

In one embodiment, the aperture extends through the upper surface andthe lower surface of the body.

In another embodiment, the body further comprises a leg that projectsfrom the lower surface. The aperture extends from an exterior surface ofthe leg to an inner surface of the leg.

Optionally, the insert includes a deformable portion. In one embodiment,the deformable portion extends into an outer surface of the insert.

In one embodiment, the first arm has a first inner surface that isconcave or arcuate. Additionally, or alternatively, the second arm canhave a second inner surface that is concave or arcuate.

The method optionally includes moving the insert to the first positionbefore positioning the body of the clamp proximate to the roof joint. Inthis manner the distance between the first and second distal ends of thearms are separated by a first distance that is greater than a width ofthe bulb seam of the roof joint. In this manner, the body can be lowereddownwardly directly onto the roof joint.

In one embodiment, the method includes positioning the protrusion of theinsert within the recess before positioning the body of the clampproximate to the roof joint. Alternatively, in another embodiment, theprotrusion is positioned within the recess after the body of the clampis positioned proximate to the roof joint.

One aspect of the present disclosure is a mounting device or clamp toengage a rib joint. The clamp includes an insert that can pivot relativeto a body. The body has a slot to receive the rib joint. A barcomponent, such as a seam fastener, can be advanced through an apertureand into the slot to engage the insert. As the bar component is advancedagainst the insert, the insert pivots within the slot to engage asidewall of the rib joint. The insert can be connected to the body witheither a first projection or a second projection of the insert facingthe sidewall of the rib joint. In one embodiment, when the bar componentapplies a force to the insert and presses the insert against the ribjoint, the insert may bend or deform against an exterior surface of thesidewall.

One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a clamp thatcomprises: (1) a body including: (a) a first end spaced from a secondend in a longitudinal dimension; (b) a top and a bottom that are spacedfrom one another in a vertical dimension, the bottom including a firstbottom surface and a second bottom surface; (c) a first side surface anda second side surface that are spaced from one another in a horizontaldimension; (d) a slot which extends between the first and second ends,is located between the first side surface and the second side surface,and extends into the bottom, the slot including: (i) a first slotsidewall that extends inwardly from the first bottom surface, (ii) asecond slot sidewall that extends inwardly from the second bottomsurface, (iii) a slot base that extends between the first slot sidewalland the second slot sidewall, and (iv) a nose that extends into the slotfrom the second slot sidewall, the second slot sidewall being fixedrelative to the first slot sidewall and the slot base; (e) a recess thatextends between the first and second ends along a rotation axis that isabout parallel to the longitudinal dimension, the recess including anopening to the slot; and (f) an aperture that extends through the firstside surface to the slot, the aperture extending along an axis that isoriented at a predetermined angle to the vertical dimension; (2) aninsert including: (i) a first end spaced from a second end in thelongitudinal dimension; (ii) an arm extending between a protrusion and adistal end of the insert; (iii) a first side surface of the arm with afirst projection; and (iv) a second side surface of the arm with asecond projection, the protrusion being positionable within the recessof the body such that one of the first side surface and the second sidesurface of the arm is facing the first slot sidewall; and (3) a barcomponent disposable in the aperture to engage the insert and pivot thedistal end of the insert about the rotation axis from a first positionproximate to the first slot sidewall to a second position spaced fromthe first slot sidewall.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert has a circularcross-sectional shape that complements a circular cross-sectional shapeof the recess.

In one embodiment, the recess opening intersects the first slot sidewalland the slot base.

In one embodiment, the first and second side surfaces of the arm aregenerally planar and approximately parallel.

In one embodiment, the rotation axis is about perpendicular to the firstand second ends of the body.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert is positioned in therecess of the body with the first side surface of the arm facing towardthe first slot sidewall.

In one embodiment, the first side surface of the arm is positioned toface toward the first slot sidewall such that the second side surface ofthe arm is positioned to face toward a first rib joint.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert is positioned in therecess of the body with the second side surface of the arm facing towardthe first slot sidewall. Optionally, when the protrusion is positionedin the recess such that the second side surface is facing the first slotsidewall, the second side surface of the insert is positionable in asubstantially parallel relation with a second section of first slotsidewall. Additionally, or alternatively, a second sidewall of thesecond projection of the of the insert is positionable in asubstantially parallel relation with a first section of first slotsidewall. The second section is positioned between the first section andthe slot base.

In one embodiment, the second side surface of the arm is positioned toface toward the first slot sidewall such that the first side surface ofthe arm is positioned to face toward a second rib joint, the second ribjoint being of a different size or shape than the first rib joint.

In one embodiment, the first slot sidewall comprises a first section anda second section with the second section of the first slot sidewallbeing located between the first section and the slot base in thevertical dimension.

In one embodiment, the first and second sections of the first slotsidewall are each disposed in different orientations relative to thevertical dimension.

In one embodiment, the first side surface includes a first upper portionand a first lower portion.

In one embodiment, the first lower portion is about parallel to thesecond section of the first slot sidewall.

The first lower portion is optionally oriented at an oblique angle tothe top. Additionally, or alternatively, the first upper portion isoriented approximately perpendicular to the top.

In one embodiment, the nose extends from a lower end of the second slotsidewall and into the slot.

In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall is generally planar betweenan upper portion of the nose and the slot base.

In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall is oriented at an obliqueangle to the first slot sidewall and to the slot base.

In one embodiment, the second side surface is generally planar betweenthe second bottom surface and the top. Alternatively, the second sidesurface may include a second upper portion and a second lower portion.

In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall is oriented at an obliqueangle to the second upper and lower portions.

In one embodiment, the insert includes a dimple that is alignable withthe aperture of the body.

In one embodiment, the aperture has an internal thread and the barcomponent has an outer thread that complements the internal thread ofthe aperture.

Optionally, the axis of the aperture is oriented at an oblique angle tothe vertical dimension. Additionally, or alternatively, the axis may beapproximately perpendicular to one or more of the first lower portion ofthe first side surface and the second portion of the first slotsidewall.

In one embodiment, the body further comprises an attachment aperturethat extends into the top.

In one embodiment, the attachment aperture intersects the recess.Alternatively, the attachment aperture is offset from the recess.

In one embodiment, at least one of the first side surface and the secondside surface of the arm includes a deformable portion with a recess, thedeformable portion alignable with the aperture of the body.

In one embodiment, as the bar component is advanced through the apertureto press the insert against a rib joint of a nail strip, the arm of theinsert may bend. More specifically, the arm of the insert may bend froma generally linear shape to a curved shape as the bar component pressesthe insert against a sidewall of the rib joint. In one embodiment, thearm may bend such that one of the first and second side surfaces has aconcave shape. In this manner, the other one of the first and secondside surfaces will have a convex shape facing the rib joint sidewall toavoid damage to the rib joint sidewall while improving the holdingstrength of the insert and the clamp.

In one embodiment, the body has only one recess to receive a protrusionof an insert.

In one embodiment, the clamp includes only one insert.

In one embodiment, the body is of a one-piece construction. Optionally,the body is formed to by an extrusion process.

In one embodiment, the insert is of a one-piece construction. The insertmay optionally be formed by an extrusion process.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure to provide a method ofsecuring a clamp to a rib joint. The method generally includes, but isnot limited to: (1) positioning a body of the clamp proximate to the ribjoint such that a nose of the body projects into a recess of the ribjoint, the body including: (a) a first end spaced from a second end in alongitudinal dimension; (b) a top and a bottom that are spaced from oneanother in a vertical dimension, the bottom including a first bottomsurface and a second bottom surface; (c) a first side surface and asecond side surface that are spaced from one another in a horizontaldimension; (d) a slot which extends between the first and second ends,is located between the first side surface and the second side surface,and extends into the bottom, the slot including: (i) a first slotsidewall that extends inwardly from the first bottom surface, (ii) asecond slot sidewall that extends inwardly from the second bottomsurface, (iii) a slot base that extends between the first slot sidewalland the second slot sidewall, and (iv) the nose that extends into theslot from the second slot sidewall, the rib joint being positioned inthe slot; (e) a recess that extends between the first and second endsalong a rotation axis that is about parallel to the longitudinaldimension, the recess including an opening to the slot; and (f) anaperture that extends through the first side surface to the slot, theaperture extending along an axis that is oriented at a predeterminedangle to the vertical dimension; (2) positioning a protrusion of aninsert within the recess such that one of a first side surface and asecond side surface of the insert is facing the first slot sidewall ofthe body; and (3) advancing a bar component through the aperture intoengagement with the one of the first side surface and the second sidesurface of the insert that is facing the first slot sidewall of the bodysuch that a distal end of the insert pivots from a first position to asecond position to engage a sidewall of the rib joint.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert has a circularcross-sectional shape that complements a circular cross-sectional shapeof the recess.

In one embodiment, the recess opening intersects the first slot sidewalland the slot base.

In one embodiment, the first and second side surfaces of the arm aregenerally planar and approximately parallel.

In one embodiment, the rotation axis is about perpendicular to the firstand second ends of the body.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert is positioned in therecess of the body with the first side surface of the arm facing towardthe first slot sidewall.

In one embodiment, the first side surface of the arm is positioned toface toward the first slot sidewall such that the second side surface ofthe arm is positioned to face toward a first rib joint.

In one embodiment, the protrusion of the insert is positioned in therecess of the body with the second side surface of the arm facing towardthe first slot sidewall.

In one embodiment, the second side surface of the arm is positioned toface toward the first slot sidewall such that the first side surface ofthe arm is positioned to face toward a second rib joint, the second ribjoint being of a different size or shape than the first rib joint.

In one embodiment, the first slot sidewall comprises a first section anda second section with the second section of the first slot sidewallbeing located between the first section and the slot base in thevertical dimension.

In one embodiment, the first and second sections of the first slotsidewall are each disposed in different orientations relative to thevertical dimension.

In one embodiment, the first side surface includes a first upper portionand a first lower portion.

In one embodiment, the first lower portion is about parallel to thesecond section of the first slot sidewall.

In one embodiment, the nose extends from a lower end of the second slotsidewall and into the slot.

In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall is generally planar betweenan upper portion of the nose and the slot base.

In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall is oriented at an obliqueangle to the first slot sidewall and to the slot base.

In one embodiment, the second side surface is generally planar betweenthe second bottom surface and the top. Alternatively, the second sidesurface may include a second upper portion and a second lower portion.

In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall is oriented at an obliqueangle to the second upper and lower portions.

In one embodiment, the insert includes a dimple that is alignable withthe aperture of the body.

In one embodiment, the aperture has an internal thread and the barcomponent has an outer thread that complements the internal thread ofthe aperture.

Optionally, the axis of the aperture is oriented at an oblique angle tothe vertical dimension. Additionally, or alternatively, the axis may beapproximately perpendicular to one or more of the first lower portion ofthe first side surface and the second portion of the first slotsidewall.

In one embodiment, the body further comprises an attachment aperturethat extends into the top.

In one embodiment, the attachment aperture intersects the recess.Alternatively, the attachment aperture is offset from the recess.

In one embodiment, at least one of the first side surface and the secondside surface of the arm includes a deformable portion with a recess, thedeformable portion alignable with the aperture of the body.

Optionally, the method further comprises bending the arm of the insertwith the bar component as it is advanced through the aperture. Morespecifically, the arm of the insert may bend from an initial shape thatis generally linear to a second shape that is curved as the barcomponent presses the insert against a sidewall of the rib joint. In oneembodiment, in the second shape of the arm, one of the first and secondside surfaces facing the aperture has a concave shape. In this manner,the other one of the first and second side surfaces facing the rib jointsidewall will have a convex shape to avoid damage to the rib jointsidewall while improving the holding strength of the insert and theclamp.

The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” are open-endedexpressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. Forexample, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at leastone of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B,or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and Btogether, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together.When each one of A, B, and C in the above expressions refers to anelement, such as X, Y, and Z, or class of elements, such as X1-Xn,Y1-Ym, and Z1-Zo, the phrase is intended to refer to a single elementselected from X, Y, and Z, a combination of elements selected from thesame class (e.g., X1 and X2) as well as a combination of elementsselected from two or more classes (e.g., Y1 and Zo).

The term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. Assuch, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can beused interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms“comprising”, “including”, and “having” can be used interchangeably.

It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation giventhroughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every lowernumerical limitation as an alternative, as if such lower numericallimitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numericallimitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include eachand every higher numerical limitation as an alternative, as if suchhigher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Everynumerical range given throughout this disclosure is deemed to includeeach and every narrower numerical range that falls within such broadernumerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expresslywritten herein.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities,dimensions, conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in thespecification and claims are to be understood as being modified in allinstances by the term “about” or “approximately”. Accordingly, unlessotherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions,conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in the specification andclaims may be increased or decreased by approximately 5% to achievesatisfactory results. In addition, all ranges described herein may bereduced to any subrange or portion of the range.

Additionally, where the meaning of the terms “about” or “approximately”as used herein would not otherwise be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art, the terms “about” and “approximately” should be interpretedas meaning within plus or minus 5% of the stated value.

All ranges described herein may be reduced to any sub-range or portionof the range, or to any value within the range without deviating fromthe invention. For example, the range “5 to 55” includes, but is notlimited to, the sub-ranges “5 to 20” as well as “17 to 54.”

The preceding is a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide anunderstanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neitheran extensive nor exhaustive overview of the disclosure and its variousaspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is intended neither toidentify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate thescope of the disclosure but to present selected concepts of thedisclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detaileddescription presented below.

As will be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurationsof the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, oneor more of the features set forth above or described in detail below. Aswill be appreciated, other embodiments are possible using, alone or incombination, one or more of the features set forth above or describedherein. For example, it is contemplated that various features anddevices shown and/or described with respect to one embodiment may becombined with or substituted for features or devices of otherembodiments regardless of whether or not such a combination orsubstitution is specifically shown or described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGS.

The accompanying drawings are incorporated into and form a part of thespecification to illustrate several examples of the present disclosure.The drawings are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure to onlythe illustrated and described examples.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a clamp according to embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 1B is an end elevation view of the clamp in FIG. 1A according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an end elevation view of a roof support according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is an end elevation view of a roof joint connecting two roofpanels with a bulb seam according to embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4 is an end elevation view of a clamp around a roof joint and aroof support with an insert in a first position relative to a body ofthe clamp according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an end elevation view of the clamp, the roof joint, and theroof support of FIG. 4 with the insert in a second position relative tothe body of the clamp according to embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 6 is a partial detailed view of FIG. 5 showing the insert in thesecond position relative to the body of the clamp according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a further partial detailed view of FIG. 5 showing the insertin the second position relative to the body of the clamp according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a body of a clamp according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8B is a further perspective view of a body of a clamp, with alength that is shorter than the length of the clamp in FIG. 8A,according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an insert of a clamp according toembodiments of the present disclosure, the insert having a length to fitin the body of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9B is another perspective view of an insert with a length to fit inthe body of FIG. 8B, the length being less than the length of the insertin FIG. 9A, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a further clamp according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10B is an end elevation view of the clamp in FIG. 10A according toembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a clamp of another embodiment of thepresent disclosure with an insert of the clamp in a first positionrelative to a body of the clamp;

FIG. 11B is an end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 11A positioned ona roof joint and with the insert in the first position relative to thebody;

FIG. 11C is another perspective view of the clamp of FIG. 11A with theinsert in a second position relative to the body;

FIG. 11D is another end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 11C engagedto the roof joint and with the insert in the second position relative tothe body;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a clamp of yet another embodiment ofthe present disclosure with an insert;

FIG. 12B is an end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 12A in an open orfirst position;

FIG. 12C is a top plan view of the clamp of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12D is a first side elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12E is a second side elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12F is another end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 12A in aclosed or second position;

FIG. 12G is a front elevation view of the body of the clamp of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12H is a front elevation view of the insert of the clamp of FIG.12A;

FIG. 12I is a front elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 11C engaged tothe roof joint and with the insert in the second position;

FIG. 13A is an end elevation view of a clamp body of a clamp of anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13B is an end elevation view of the clamp including the clamp bodyof FIG. 13A with an insert according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 13C is a perspective view of the clamp of FIG. 13B;

FIG. 13D is a first side elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 13B;

FIG. 13E is an end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 13B;

FIG. 14A is an end elevation view showing a first end of the insertaccording to the embodiment of FIG. 13B;

FIG. 14B is another end elevation view showing a second end of theinsert of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15 is an end elevation view showing the second end of the clamp ofFIGS. 13A and 13B with the insert engaged with the clamp body;

FIG. 16 is an end elevation view showing the first end of the clamp ofFIG. 15 engaged to a first rib joint;

FIG. 17A is another end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 16 engagedto a second rib joint;

FIG. 17B is an end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 17A engaged tothe second rib joint and illustrating the insert bent by a bar componentadvanced through an aperture of the clamp to engage the second ribjoint;

FIG. 18 is an end elevation view of another clamp of the presentdisclosure engaged to the first rib joint;

FIG. 19 is another end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 18 engaged tothe second rib joint;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of still another clamp of the presentdisclosure; and

FIG. 21 is an end elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 20.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it isto be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its applicationto the details of construction and the arrangement of components setforth in the following description or illustrated in the figures. Thedisclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or ofbeing carried out in various ways. As will be appreciated, otherembodiments are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more ofthe features set forth above or described herein. For example, it iscontemplated that various features and devices shown and/or describedwith respect to one embodiment may be combined with or substituted forfeatures or devices of other embodiments regardless of whether or notsuch a combination or substitution is specifically shown or describedherein. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology andterminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should notbe regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or“having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the itemslisted thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.Further, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one ormore aspects thereof. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the use orlisting of one or more examples (which may be denoted by “for example,”“by way of example,” “e.g.,” “such as,” or similar language) is notintended to and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Theuse of “mounting device” and “clamp” can be interchangeable herein.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a perspective view and an end elevationview of a clamp 10 are provided, respectively. The clamp 10 has aninsert 14 that rotates relative to a body 12 about an axis 16. Theinsert 14 can rotate between a first position and a second position tosecure the clamp 10 to a roof joint 56 without pinning or otherwisefixing the roof joint to an underlying support 42, such as a halter orclip, and without crushing or otherwise significantly deforming the roofjoint (including in particular the bulb seam or other distal portion ofthe roof joint).

The clamp body 12 may be unitary or of one-piece construction. The clampbody may be an extrusion of a material that is appropriate for thedesired application of the clamp 10, such as aluminum, stainless steel,zinc, copper or brass alloys. Other manufacturing techniques could alsobe utilized for making the clamp body, such as casting or machining.However, extruding the clamp body 12 provides a number of advantages,including ease of manufacture, reduced costs, and structural strength.

Additionally, or alternatively, the insert 14 may also be of a one-pieceor unitary construction. The insert may be formed of any suitablematerial including, without limitation, aluminum, stainless steel, zinc,copper or brass. In one embodiment, the insert 14 is extruded. However,in other embodiments, the insert is produced by other manufacturingtechniques, such as casting or machining.

The clamp 10 can be described relative to a horizontal dimension (oraxis) 86, a vertical dimension or axis 87, and a longitudinal dimensionor axis 88. The axes 86, 87, 88 are orthogonal to each other.

As also shown in FIG. 1A, the clamp 10 may optionally include one ormore of a bar aperture 18 and a connection aperture 20. The bar aperture18 can receive a bar component 58 that, when advanced through the baraperture 18, causes the insert 14 to rotate about the axis 16 asdescribed in further detail below.

The bar aperture 18 extends along an axis 19 that is oriented to engagean upper surface 68 of the insert 14. Notably, in this embodiment, theaxis 19 is offset from a receiving space 36 of the clamp 10. Morespecifically, the axis 19 does not intersect the receiving space 36.Accordingly, a bar component 58 advanced through the bar aperture 18will not contact a roof joint 56 positioned within the receiving space36. This is beneficial because the bar component will not damage theroof joint or scratch a finish or coating of the roof joint. Moreover,the bar component will not bend or deform vertical sidewalls 53, 55 ofthe roof joint and squeeze a body of a roof support within the roofjoint. In one embodiment, the axis 19 is approximately perpendicular tothe upper surface 82 of the body 12. In another embodiment, the axis 19is approximately parallel to the vertical axis 87.

Optionally, the bar aperture 18 may initially be unthreaded prior tofirst advancing the bar component 58 through the aperture. Theunthreaded bar aperture 18 reduces operations required to manufacturethe body 12 and beneficially reduces the cost of producing the clamp 10.Alternatively, in one embodiment, the bar aperture 18 includes aninterior thread.

The connection aperture 20 can be an aperture, a recess, or othersimilar connection feature that allows various structures to beconnected to the clamp 10. For instance, the clamp 10 can be connectedto a roof joint 56, and then a brace, a snow guard, a solar panel, orother similar structures can be connected to the connection aperture 20of the clamp 10. The connection aperture 20 may or may not be threaded.In one embodiment, the connection aperture 20 is adapted to receive athreaded fastener, such as a set screw or a bolt. Optionally, theconnection aperture 20 has a diameter that is different than a diameterof the bar aperture 18. For instance, in one embodiment, the diameter ofthe connection aperture is less than the diameter of the bar aperture.

Although only one connection aperture 20 is illustrated in FIG. 1A,clamps 10 of all embodiments of the present disclosure may have anynumber of connection apertures. Further, although the connectionaperture 20 is illustrated oriented generally parallel to the verticalaxis 87, other orientations and positions of the connection aperture arecontemplated. In one embodiment, one or more connection apertures 20 areformed in the first end 13A or the second end 13B.

Optionally, in one configuration, the connection aperture 20 may extendthrough the body of the clamp. In another configuration, the connectionaperture 20 intersects the receiving space 36.

In one embodiment, the connection aperture 20 is elongated in thelongitudinal direction 88 to define a slot. The slot aperture 20 extendsat least partially from the first end 13A to the second end 13B of thebody 12. In one embodiment, the slot aperture 20 extends the length ofthe body from the first end 13A to the second end 13B. The slot aperture20 has a first width to receive a shaft of a fastener.

Optionally, the body 12 includes a second slot that is below the slotaperture 20 in the vertical direction 87. The slot aperture 20intersects the second slot. The second slot has a second width that isgreater than the first width. More specifically, the second slot issized to receive a nut to engage the fastener shaft or a head at an endof the fastener shaft. Examples of slots of a variety of sizes andconfigurations that can be formed in the body 12 of all embodiments ofthe present disclosure are described in U.S. Pat. Pub. 2019/0169856which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In FIG. 1B, an end elevation view of the clamp 10 is provided. Theinsert 14 has a protrusion 24 that can be positioned within a recess 22of the body 12. In one embodiment, the protrusion 24 has a generallycircular cross-sectional shape that matches a generally circularcross-sectional shape of the recess 22 to promote rotation of theprotrusion 24 within the recess 22. The recess 22 can have a shape thatis generally cylindrical. Similarly, the protrusion 24 can have agenerally cylindrical shape with a diameter that is about equal to, butnot greater than, a diameter of the recess. Optionally, the recess 22can extend from a first end 13A to an opposing second end 13B of thebody 12. Additionally, the protrusion 24 may extend from the first end15A to the second end 15B of the insert 14. However, it will beappreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure encompassdifferent configurations of the protrusion 24 and recess 22. Forexample, the recess 22 may extend only partially through the body 12such that the protrusion 24 slides into an open end of the recess 22until the protrusion 24 contacts a closed end of the recess 22.

In some embodiments, the material of the clamp 10 immediately adjacentto one end of the recess 22 may be peened or otherwise treated to createone or more protrusions extending into the recess 22. Such protrusionsmay beneficially prevent the insert 14, once inserted into the recess 22from the opposite end of the recess 22, from sliding out of the end ofthe recess 22 adjacent the peening. In some embodiments, material of theclamp 10 immediately adjacent to one end of the recess 22 may be peenedas described above either before or after an insert 14 has been insertedinto the recess 22, and the opposite end of the recess 22 may be peenedas described above after the insert 14 has been inserted into the recess22, so as to prevent the insert 14 from sliding out of or otherwisebeing removed from the recess 22.

In addition, although the cross-sectional shapes of the protrusion 24and the recess 22 are depicted as generally circular, embodiments of thepresent disclosure encompass non-circular shapes. For instance, one ofthe protrusion 24 and the recess 22 can have a surface with one or moredetents, and the other one of the protrusion 24 and the recess 22 canhave a surface with one or more depressions. Thus, the protrusion 24 canrotate within the recess 22 between discrete positions as the detentsare received in the depressions rather than among an infinite number ofpositions as is possible with the circular cross sections. The discretepositions can improve the ability of the protrusion 24 and the recess22, and thus of the insert 14 and the body 12, to hold relative to eachother at a first position, a second position, etc.

The body 12 includes an upper surface 82 opposite a lower surface 84. Inone embodiment, the upper surface 82 is generally planar. The lowersurface 84 may optionally be generally planar. In one embodiment, theupper and lower surface 82, 84 are approximately parallel. Optionally,the lower surface 84 is approximately parallel to the horizontal axis86.

Next, the insert 14 optionally comprises a deformable portion 26, asgenerally shown in FIG. 1B. This deformable portion 26 can be alignedwith the bar aperture 18. In this manner, the deformable portionreceives a distal end of a bar component 58 extending through the baraperture 18 of the body 12. The bar component 58 contacts and pushes theinsert 14 from a first position (such as generally illustrated in FIG.4) to a second position (which is generally shown in FIG. 5) relative tothe body 12 and about the axis 16. The deformable portion 26 in thisembodiment is deformable such that when the distal end 59 of the barcomponent 58 drives into the deformable portion 26, the bar componentdeforms the deformable portion 26. In one embodiment, the bar component58 can become partially embedded within the deformable portion 26 andthe insert 14. As a result, the bar component 58 prevents the protrusion24 of the insert 14 from sliding out of the recess 22 of the body 12along the direction of the axis 16. Moreover, when the bar component 58is at least partially embedded in the deformable portion 26, inadvertentor unintended movement of the protrusion 24 relative to the recess 22 isprevented or reduced. Further features of the deformable portion 26 aredescribed in detail below.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosureencompass inserts 14 that do not comprise a deformable portion 26, butthat still prevent sliding movement between the body 12 and the insert14. For instance, the distal end 59 of the bar component 58 can contacta non-deformable surface of the insert 14 with varying shapes. Thenon-deformable surface can comprise a surface with a recess forreceiving the distal end 59 of the bar component 58, a flat surface, orany other desired surface. As generally illustrated in FIG. 12H, theinsert may optionally include one or more grooves 69 formed in the outersurface 67. The grooves 69 are positioned such that the distal end 59 ofa bar component 58 may engage them when advanced through the baraperture. Optionally, a first groove 69A is positioned about 0.1 inchesfrom the insert upper surface 68. A second groove 69B is optionallypositioned about 0.06 inches from the first groove 69A.

As further shown in FIG. 1B, the body 12 has a first arm 28 extendingalong a line 30 and the insert 14 has a second arm 32 extending alonganother line 34. As generally illustrated, the lines 30, 34 may becurved or arcuate. More specifically, the lines 30, 34 may have apredetermined radius of curvature.

The arms 28, 32 have respective first and second inner surfaces 31, 35.The inner surfaces 31, 35 of the arms have a round or curved shape. Morespecifically, in one embodiment, the first inner surface 31 and thesecond inner surface 35 are concave. Such concavity beneficially allowsthe clamp 10 to achieve a close fit around the roof joint seam 56, whilealso beneficially reducing the likelihood that the clamp 10 will deformor otherwise damage the roof joint seam 56.

The first and second inner surfaces 31, 35 define a receiving space 36of the clamp 10. In one embodiment, the receiving space 36 has across-section that is generally circular. The receiving space 36 can bedescribed as having a cylindrical shape with an axis extending aboutparallel to the longitudinal axis 88. When the clamp 10 is positionedabout a portion of a roof or sidewall of a building, such as a roofjoint seam 56, the arms 28, 32 extend around the roof joint seam suchthat it is positioned within the receiving space 36. The arms 28, 32 canbe set off (or spaced) from the roof joint seam by a distance or cancontact and generally conform to the roof joint seam. Then, the arms 28,32 can move from a first position to a second position to secure theclamp 10 to the roof joint seam 56.

The lines 30, 34 can optionally have approximately the same radius ofcurvature in this embodiment, but it will be appreciated that thepresent disclosure encompasses embodiments where the lines 30, 34 havedifferent radii of curvature. Optionally, the first and second innersurfaces have a radius of curvature of between about 0.40 inches and0.46 inches, or about 0.43 inches. Alternatively, in one embodiment, thelines 30, 32 have no radius of curvature at all.

Next, each arm 28, 32 may have a respective protrusion or distal end 38,40 that extends away from the lines 30, 34 and into the receiving space36. The distal ends 38, 40 may be rounded to reduce a chance of thedistal ends 38, 40 puncturing the roof panel portions that form the roofjoint seam, and/or to reduce a chance of the distal ends 38, 40 damaginga finish on the roof panel portions that form the roof joint seam 56.

These distal ends 38, 40 can be positioned (when the clamp 10 isinstalled on a roof joint seam) below a maximum diameter or dimension ofa roof joint seam to retain the clamp 10 to the roof joint seam withoutcrushing or significantly deforming the roof joint seam, and withoutpinning the roof joint seam 56 to an underlying support 42. Further, insome embodiments, the distal ends 38, 40 can be positioned below amaximum diameter or dimension of a roof joint (e.g., below a bulb seamthereof) and slightly deform part of the roof joint (but not so much asto pin the roof joint to an underlying support) to secure the clamp 10to the roof joint. Though depicted as distal ends 38, 40, these features38, 40 can extend from the respective arms 28, 32 at a location that isoffset from the distal ends of the arms 28, 32.

Although embodiments of the present disclosure illustrated in theFigures depict a clamp 10 comprising a first arm 28, and an insert 14comprising a second arm 32, in some embodiments, the clamp 10 maycomprise a first arm 28 and a second arm opposite the first arm, thesecond arm extending in the same direction as the first arm but from anopposite side of the clamp 10, such that an insert 14, when positionedin the recess, extends in between the first arm 28 and the second arm.In such embodiments, the bar aperture 18 may be positioned in the firstor second arm, and the bar component 58 may extend through the baraperture 18 to impact the insert 14.

Referring to FIG. 2, an end elevation view of a roof support 42 isprovided. The roof support 42 generally has a base 44, a body 46 thatextends upward from the base 44, and a distal end 48. From the endelevation view, the distal end 48 has a larger width or diameter thanthe body 46, and the distal end 48 extends to the left and the right ofthe body 46 to define two recesses 50 a, 50 b. It will be appreciatedthat the distal end 48 may extend to only one side of the body 46 todefine a single recess in some embodiments. In this embodiment, thesupport 42 is a roof halter that can extend upward from a roofsubsurface, secure a material such as insulation, and provide a locationto secure metal roof panels. In other embodiments, a support 42 withinthe scope of the present disclosure may be a clip, or any otherstructure or device over which a roofjoint is installed in a floatingconfiguration (e.g., where the roof joint is not fixedly secured to thesupport, but is free to expand, contract, and slide (at least to anextent) relative to the support).

Referring to FIG. 3, an end elevation view of two roof panels 52, 54that form a roof joint 56 is provided. The ends of the roof panels 52,54 interleave with each other such that the first panel 52 can be placedon the support 42, and the second panel 54 can be positioned over thefirst panel 52 at an angle. Then, the second panel 54 can rotate intothe position shown in FIG. 3 to form a roof joint 56, which in thisinstance comprises a bulb seam. This configuration allows for the quickand efficient assembly of roof panels 52, 54. When the two panels 52, 54are joined, a distal or free end 57 of the second roof panel 54 ispositioned outwardly relative to a curved portion of the first roofpanel 52.

The roof joint 56 is spaced vertically above horizontal portions of thetwo roof panels 52, 54 by respective vertical portions 53, 55 of thepanels. The roof joint 56 has a first width W1 that is greater than asecond width W2 of the vertical portions 53, 55. One roof joint 56 has afirst width W1 of approximately 0.875 inches. However, the clamps 10 ofthe present disclosure are adapted to be secured to roof joints 56 withother widths W1 and that are provided by various manufacturers.

Referring to FIG. 4, an end elevation view of a clamp 10, a barcomponent 58, a roof support 42, and roof panels 52, 54 is provided.Here, the first roof panel 52 and the second roof panel 54 areinterleaved with each other over the distal end of the support 42. Inaddition, the insert 14 of the clamp 10 is in a first position relativeto the body 12 to establish a first distance 60 between the distal ends38, 40 of the arms of the body 12 and the insert 14. In one embodiment,the distal end 57 of the second roof panel 54 is proximate to (and maybe engaged by) the protrusion 38 at the first end of the first arm 28.

In some embodiments, the first distance 60 is larger than the width W1of the bulb seam of the roof joint 56 such that the clamp 10 can bedirectly placed on the roof joint 56 from above. In the depictedembodiment, the first distance 60 is smaller than the width W1 of thebulb seam of the roof joint 56, and the clamp 10 can slide into positionfrom an end of the roof joint 56 to a desired point along the roof joint56. Alternatively, the insert 14 can be separated from the body 12. Thebody 12 can then be positioned at a desired point along the roof joint56. Thereafter, the insert 14 can be interconnected to the body 12 byaligning the insert protrusion 24 with the body recess 22. The installercan then move the protrusion 24 along the axis of rotation 16 within therecess 22 to form the clamp 10.

This method of installing the clamp on the roofjoint is beneficialbecause the installer can lower the clamp 10 vertically onto the roofjoint at the position where the clamp is needed on the roof joint. Incontrast, some prior art roof clamps cannot be lowered directly onto theroof joint at the needed position, such as when the roof clamp cannotfit over bulb seam roof joint. Instead, these prior art roof clamps mustbe slid onto an end of the roof joint. The installer must then slide theroof clamp along the length of the roofjoint to the needed position.This manner of positioning a prior art roof clamp on a roofjoint isgenerally less efficient and is time consuming. For instance, theinstaller may need to slide the prior art roof clamp a considerabledistance along the length of the roof joint to reach the position wherethe roof clamp is needed position. Moreover, there may be obstruction onthe roof joint that prevents movement of the roof clamp along the lengthof the roof joint. For example, a previously installed roof clamp orother protrusion or structure on the roof joint may block the movementof the roof clamp.

When the clamp 10 is positioned on the roofjoint, the distal ends 38, 40of the arms 28, 32 are positioned proximate to the recesses 50 a, 50 bformed by the support 42 where, as explained in further detail below,the ends 38, 40 can partially extend into these recesses 50 a, 50 b. Inone embodiment, the ends 38, 40 can optionally deform the panels 52, 54into the recesses 50 a, 50 b (without pinning or otherwise fixedlysecuring the panels 52, 54 to the support 42). In this manner, the roofand one or more of the panels 52, 54 can still move at least slightlyrelative to the support 42 after the clamp 10 is secured to theroofjoint 56.

One embodiment of the bar component 58 is generally shown in FIG. 4.Optionally, the bar component 58 in this embodiment is a set screw witha rounded distal end 59 that contacts the insert 14 to rotate the insert14 relative to the body 12. In other embodiments, the bar component 58may be or comprise a bolt, a screw, a threaded rod, or any otherfastener suitable for engaging an aperture 18 of the clamp body 12. Thebar component 58 may be generally cylindrical. In one embodiment,threads are formed on an exterior surface of the bar component 58 toengage interior threads of the bar aperture 18.

Referring to FIG. 5, another end elevation view of a clamp 10, a barcomponent 58, a support 42, and roof panels 52, 54 is provided. Here,the bar component 58 has contacted an upper surface 68 of the insert 14to rotate the insert relative to the body 12 from the first positionillustrated in FIG. 4 to a second position. As a result, a seconddistance 62 between the distal ends 38, 40 is smaller than the firstdistance 60. This causes the distal ends 38, 40 to at least retain theclamp 10 to the roof joint 56. This can be accomplished when the seconddistance 62 is less than a maximum diameter or dimension W1 of the roofjoint 56. In addition, the second distance 62 can be less than a widthof the distal end 48 of the support 42. Further still, the distal ends38, 40 can extend into the recesses 50 a, 50 b to retain the clamp 10 tothe roof joint 56. In some embodiments, the distal ends 38, 40 candeform part of the panels 52, 54 into the recesses 50 a, 50 b to providean even more secure connection between the clamp 10 and the roof joint56.

Notably, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the arms 28, 32engage the roofjoint 56 when in the second position without contactingthe vertical portions 53, 55 of the panels 52, 54. More specifically, inone embodiment, the distal ends 38, 40 of the arms contact a curvedportion of the roof joint 56. In this manner, the vertical portions 53,55 of the panels are not bent or deformed by engagement of the clamp 10with the roof joint 56. Additionally, or alternatively, in oneembodiment, the innermost portion of the protrusion 38 of the first armis spaced from the roof joint 56 as generally illustrated in FIG. 5.

The protrusion 38 at the distal end of the first arm 28 is positionedproximate to the distal end 57 of the second roof panel 54. In oneembodiment, the protrusion 38 at the distal end of the first arm 28 isengaged with the distal end 57 of the second roof panel 54. Morespecifically, the distal end 57 is positioned between the first innersurface 31 of the first arm and the inward protrusion 38 of the firstarm. This arrangement is beneficial to prevent unintended or inadvertentrotation of the clamp 10 relative to the roof joint 56 in a clockwisedirection when viewed from the perspective of FIG. 5.

It will be appreciated that in various embodiments the distal ends 38,40 do not necessarily pinch the panels 52, 54 and/or the support 42,while in others they do. Beneficially, however, the distal ends 38, 40do not pinch or otherwise deform the roof joint 56 to such an extent asto pin or otherwise fixedly secure the roof joint 56 to an underlyingsupport 42. Moreover, the arms and the distal ends 38, 40 canaccommodate different bulb seam sizes. With one seam size the distalends 38, 40 secure the clamp 10 to the roof joint 56 in one manner asdescribed herein, and with another seam size the distal ends 38, 40secure the clamp 10 to the roof joint 56 in the same or a differentmanner.

Referring to FIG. 6, a detailed end elevation view of portions of theinsert 14 and the body 12 is provided. Specifically, a detailed view ofthe relationship between the protrusion 24 of the insert 14 and therecess 22 of the body 12 as well as the optional deformable portion 26are provided. The width or diameter 64 of the circular shape of theprotrusion 24 is larger than the width 66 of an opening of the recess 22such that the protrusion 24 is retained in the recess 22. Morespecifically, the protrusion 24 may not be pulled out of the recess 22through the recess to opening. Accordingly, the protrusion 24 can bepositioned within the recess 22 from an end 13A or 13B of the body 12and the moved along the axis 16.

Next, the optional deformable portion 26 in this embodiment comprises achannel 70 that extends into an upper surface 68 of the insert 14. Thechannel 70 can extend into the insert 14 along a portion of or along theentirety of a length of the insert 14 (where the length of the insert 14is generally parallel to an axis of the protrusion 24 of the insert 14).In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the channel 70 extends along an entirety ofthe length of the insert 14, while in other embodiments, the channel 70extends only partially along the length of the insert 14. Two deformableflanges or edges 72 a, 72 b extend over the channel 70. The distal end59 of the bar component 58 can drive into and at least partially deformone or both of these edges 72 a, 72 b .

In addition, the deformable portion 26 can comprise channel recesses 74a, 74 b that extend outwardly into the insert 14 from a center portionof the channel 70. These recesses 74 a, 74 b can extend underneath theedges 72 a, 72 b of the deformable portion 26 to provide space intowhich the edges 72 a, 72 b can deflect, and thus promote the deformationof the edges 72 a, 72 b . Accordingly, the channel 70 has a first widthbetween opposing edges 72 a, 72 b that is less than a second width ofthe channel between opposing recesses 74 a, 74 b.

Referring to FIG. 7, a further detailed end elevation view of portionsof the insert 14 and the body 12 is provided. Specifically, an offset 76between the protrusion 24 of the insert 14 and an edge 78 of the secondinner surface 35 of the insert 14 is shown. This offset 76 establishes astop portion 80 of the insert 14 that can contact the body 12 as theinsert 14 rotates relative to the body 12. The stop portion 80 ispositioned on an inward portion of the insert between the insertprotrusion 24 and the receiving space 36 of the clamp 10. In thisembodiment, in the view shown in FIG. 7, the stop portion 80 is theleft-most portion of the insert 14, and if the insert 14 rotates too farin the clockwise direction, the stop portion 80 will contact the body 12to limit rotation of the insert 14. This limit can be the secondposition as described herein or another position. Regardless, this limitcan be useful to prevent the arms of the insert 14 and the body 12 frommoving too close to each other and pinning a roof joint to an underlyingsupport and/or crushing a roof joint seam. For example, in oneembodiment the stop portion 80 is configured to stop rotation of theinsert 14 relative to the body 12 before the second distal end 40 of thesecond arm contacts the first distal end 38 of the first arm.

The stop portion 80 can have a variety of configurations. In oneembodiment, which is generally illustrated in FIG. 7, the stop portion80 is angled relative to a plane defined by the upper surface 68 of theinsert 14. Accordingly, the stop portion 80 can be described as startingat the protrusion 24 and extending downwardly relative to a horizontalaxis 86 to the edge 78 when the insert upper surface 68 is parallel tothe horizontal axis. In one embodiment, the stop portion 80 is orientedat an angle of between about 1° and about 20° relative to the insertupper surface 68. In another embodiment, the angle of the stop portion80 is between about 7° and about 11° relative to the insert uppersurface 68.

In one embodiment, the protrusion is closer to the left edge 78 than toa right or outer edge of the insert 14. While the insert protrusion 24in FIG. 7 is offset from both the left edge 78 and the right edge of thetop surface 68 of the insert 14, it will be appreciated that theprotrusion 24 can be located at one edge and would therefore be offsetfrom only the opposing edge.

Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, further perspective views of bodies 12A,12B of embodiments of the present disclosure are provided. As shown, thefirst arm 28 and the recess 22 extend completely along a length of thebody 12, but in other embodiments, these features 28, 22 may extend onlypartially along the body 12. A length of the body 12A (in a directionparallel to an axis 16 of the recess 22) may be relatively longer, asshown in FIG. 8A, or the body 12B may have a relatively shorter length,as shown in FIG. 8B, depending on factors such as, for example, anamount of available space on a roof joint, and/or a size and/or weightof a structure, appliance, or other object to be attached to the clamp10 of which the body 12 forms a part.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, perspective views of embodiments of theinsert 14A, 14B of different lengths are provided. As shown, the secondarm 32, the protrusion 24, and the optional deformable portion 26 mayextend completely along the length of the insert 14 from a first end 15Ato a second end 15B. Alternatively, in other embodiments, these features32, 24, 26 may extend only partially along the body 12. A length of theinsert 14 may be selected to match a length of the corresponding body12. More specifically, an insert 14A may have a length approximatelyequal to the length of the body 12A. Similarly, an insert 14B can have ashorter length sized to substantially match the length of the body 12B.The lengths of the body and insert are measured in the longitudinaldimension 88 (shown in FIG. 1A).

Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a perspective view and an end elevationview of a further embodiment of a clamp 10 are provided, respectively.The clamp 10 can have any number of bar apertures 18A, 18B, whether twobar apertures 18A, 18B as shown in FIG. 10A, or more. The bar apertures18A, 18B may be threaded as shown in FIG. 10A, or not threaded. In someembodiments, each of the bar apertures 18A, 18B may be aligned with anoptional deformable portion of the attached insert 14, while in otherembodiments, the deformable portion may be positioned underneath fewerthan all of the bar apertures 18A, 18B.

The connection aperture 20 may have internal threads. Additionally,although only one connection aperture 20 is shown, the clamp 10 mayinclude two or more connection apertures 20.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A-11D, still another embodiment of a clamp 10Cof the present disclosure is generally illustrated. The clamp 10Cincludes many of the same, or similar features as clamps of otherembodiments described herein. Notably, the clamp 10C includes a body 12Cwith a first portion of the lower surface 84A that is not parallel to anupper surface 82. More specifically, as generally illustrated in FIG.11B, the lower surface 84A is angled upwardly toward the upper surfaceas the lower surface extends away from the recess 22 toward a side 29 ofthe body 12C. The lower surface 84A is optionally oriented at an angleof between about 10° and about 20° relative to the upper surface 82 (andthe horizontal axis 86), or about 16°. Other angles

of the lower surface 84A with respect to the upper surface arecontemplated. Optionally, a second portion of the lower surface 84B thatis positioned opposite to the insert stop portion 80 is orientedapproximately parallel to the upper surface 82. However, in otherembodiments, the second portion of the lower surface 84B is angledrelative to the upper surface.

In one embodiment, the second portion 84B is about parallel to the firstportion 84A. The angled lower surface 84A beneficially provides morespace for the insert 14C to rotate counterclockwise around the axis ofrotation 16 and away from the first arm 28. Accordingly, the firstdistance 60 when the insert is in the first position (as illustrated inFIGS. 11C-11D) may be greater than the first distance 60 of the clamp 10shown in FIG. 1B. In one embodiment, the first distance 60 of clamp 10Cmay be greater than the width W1 of a roof joint 56. In anotherembodiment, the first distance 60 is at least about 0.30 inches.Optionally, the first distance 60 is less than about 0.90 inches. In oneembodiment, the first distance is between about 0.2 inches and about 1.0inch, or about 0.813 inches.

Optionally, the stop portion 80 of the insert is angled relative to theinsert upper surface 68. In one embodiment, generally illustrated inFIG. 11B, the stop portion 80 is oriented at an angle of between about3° and about 10° relative to the upper surface 68.

As shown in FIG. 11B, the protrusion 24 has a diameter or width 64. Inone embodiment, the width 64 is at least about 0.25 inches. In anotherembodiment, the width is between about 0.2 inches and about 0.4 inches.The protrusion width 64 of the inset 14C optionally is greater than theprotrusion width of the insert described in conjunction with FIG. 6. Aswill be appreciated by one of skill in the art, increasing theprotrusion width 64 provides greater strength and decreases the chancethat the clamp will fail due to fracture of the protrusion.

Referring now to FIGS. 12A-12I, still another embodiment of a clamp 10Dof the present disclosure is generally illustrated. The clamp 10Dincludes many of the same, or similar, features as clamps of otherembodiments described herein. More specifically, the clamp 10D has abody 12D with a first arm 28, and a recess 22 to receive a protrusion 24of an insert 14D such that the insert can rotate around an axis 16 froma first position to a second position to secure the clamp 10D to a roofjoint 56.

Notably, the clamp 10D includes a leg 27 extending downwardly from thebody 12D. A bar aperture 18D extends through the leg 27. In oneembodiment, the bar aperture 18D has a diameter of about ⅜ inch.Optionally, the bar aperture 18D is threaded. A bar component 58, suchas set screw, advanced through the bar aperture 18D applies a force tothe insert 14D to rotate the insert about axis 16 in a manner similar tothe clamps 10A-10C described herein.

The leg 27 is positioned in an opposing relationship to the first arm28. More specifically, the leg 27 extends downwardly from a second side29B of the body. The leg 27 is optionally oriented approximatelyparallel to the vertical axis 87. In one embodiment, the leg 27 forms atleast a portion of the second side 29B of the body. Optionally, anexterior surface of the second side 29B is approximately parallel to anexterior surface of the first side 29A of the body.

An inner surface 37 of the leg 27 faces the first inner surface 31 ofthe first arm 28. In one configuration, the inner surface 37 isgenerally planar. Additionally, the inner surface 37 is optionallyoriented approximately parallel to the vertical axis 87.

In one configuration, the leg 27 does not extend downwardly in thevertical dimension 87 as far as the first arm 28. Accordingly, an end 41of the leg 27 is closer to the upper surface 82 of the body 12D than thedistal end 38 of the first arm 28. In one embodiment, as generallyillustrated in FIG. 12G, the leg end 41 is spaced a distance 90 ofbetween about 0.9 inches and 1.4 inches, or about 1.16 inches from theupper surface 82. In contrast, the distal end 38 is a distance 91 ofbetween about 1.1 inches and about 1.7 inches, or about 1.43 inches fromthe upper surface.

The bar aperture 18D extends along an axis 19D through the leg 27through an exterior surface of the body second side 29B and through theleg inner surface 37. The axis 19D is oriented to engage an outersurface 67 of the insert 14D. The axis 19D is optionally approximatelyparallel to the horizontal axis 86. In one embodiment, the axis 19D isapproximately perpendicular to the second side 29B. Additionally, oralternatively, the axis 19D may be approximately parallel to the uppersurface 82. However, in other embodiments, the axis 19D is oriented atan oblique angle to the horizontal axis and/or to the upper surface 82.

Unlike the bar apertures 18 of the clamps 10A-10C of other embodimentsof the present disclosure, the axis 19D is oriented at an angle thatwill intersect the receiving space 36 of the clamp. However, a barcomponent 58 advanced through the bar aperture 18 will contact theinsert 14D and will not contact a roofjoint 56 positioned within thereceiving space 36. This is beneficial because the bar component willnot damage the roof joint or scratch a finish or coating of the roofjoint. Moreover, the bar component will not bend or deform verticalsidewalls 53, 55 of the roof joint (shown in FIG. 12I) or squeeze a bodyof a roof support within the roof joint.

The insert 14D generally has the same size and geometry as other inserts14 of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, as generally shown inFIG. 12B, the insert 14D includes an optional deformable portion 26Dpositioned to be engaged by a bar component 58 advanced through the baraperture 18D. Accordingly, when present, the deformable portion 26D isformed in the outer surface 67 of the insert rather than in the insertupper surface 68. When the protrusion 24 of the insert 14D is positionedwithin the recess 22 of the clamp body, the deformable portion 26D canbe aligned with the bar aperture 18D such that a bar component advancedthrough the bar aperture will contact at least a portion of thedeformable portion. The deformable portion 26D generally includes achannel with edges and recesses such as illustrated in FIG. 6 of insert14.

Similar to the body of clamp 10C, the clamp body 12D can optionallyinclude a first portion of the lower surface 84A that is not parallel toan upper surface 82. More specifically, as generally illustrated in FIG.12G, the lower surface first portion 84A is oriented at a predeterminedangle 85A relative to the upper surface. In one embodiment, the firstportion 84A is oriented at an oblique angle relative to the uppersurface 82. More specifically, the first portion 84A may be angledupwardly toward the upper surface as the lower surface extends away fromthe recess 22 toward the second side 29B of the body 12D. The firstportion 84A is optionally oriented at an angle 85A of between about 10°and about 35° relative to the upper surface 82 (and the horizontal axis86), or about 20° or 21°. Other angles of the first portion 84A withrespect to the upper surface are contemplated.

The first portion 84A of the lower surface extends between the recess 22and the inner surface 37 of the leg 27. In one embodiment, the firstportion 84A intersects the leg inner surface 37 at a rounded portion 51with a predetermined radius of curvature. Optionally, the radius ofcurvature of the rounded portion 51 is about 0.10 inch.

The angled lower surface 84A beneficially provides more space for theinsert 14D to rotate counterclockwise around the axis of rotation 16(when viewed from the perspective of FIG. 12B) and away from the firstarm 28. Accordingly, a first distance 60 between the first distal end 38of the first arm and the second distal end 40 of the second arm when theinsert 14D is in the “open” or first position may be greater than thefirst distance 60 of the clamp 10 shown in FIG. 1B. In one embodiment,the first distance 60 of clamp 10D is greater than the width W1 of aroof joint 56. In another embodiment, the first distance 60 is at leastabout 0.30 inches. In one embodiment, the first distance is betweenabout 0.2 inches and about 1.0 inch. Optionally, the first distance 60is about 0.813 inches.

Referring now to FIG. 12F, as the bar component 58 is advanced throughthe bar aperture 18D, the bar component will contact the outer surface67 of the insert 14D which rotates to the second position. In the secondposition, a second distance 62 between the first distal end 38 of thefirst arm 28 and the second distal end 40 of the second arm 32 is lessthan the first distance 60 (illustrated in FIG. 12B). In on embodiment,second distance 62 is between about 0.1 inches and 0.5 inches, or about0.31 inches.

As generally illustrated in FIG. 12F, rotation of the insert 14D islimited or stopped by contact of the stop portion 80 of the insert witha second portion 84B of the lower surface of the clamp body 12D. Theinteraction of the stop portion 80 and the body second portion 84B arebeneficially configured to limit rotation of the insert such that thesecond distance 62 is no less than a predetermined amount. In thismanner, damage to a roofjoint 56, such as a bulb seam joint, isprevented.

Referring to FIG. 12C, an axis 21 of the connection aperture 20 isspaced a predetermined distance 25 from the body first side 29A. In oneembodiment, the distance 25 is between about 0.50 inches and about 0.70inches, or about 0.59 inches. In this manner, when the insert is in thesecond position, the aperture axis 21 is approximately centered betweenthe first and second ends 38, 40 as generally illustrated in FIG. 12F.This is beneficial because other objects, such as a brace, a snow guard,a solar panel, or other structures connected to the clamp 10D by anattachment fastener in the connection aperture 20 can be centered over aroof joint 56 and its vertical portions 53, 55.

In one embodiment, the connection aperture 20 is threaded. Optionally,the connection aperture 20 extends through the body from the uppersurface 82 to the receiving space 36. The aperture axis 21 is optionallyoriented substantially perpendicular to the upper surface.

Referring again to FIG. 12G, the second portion 84B of the lower surfaceis positioned on an opposite side of the recess 22 from the firstportion 84A. In one embodiment, the bottom second portion 84B isoriented approximately parallel to the upper surface 82. However, inother embodiments, the second portion of the lower surface 84B is angledrelative to the upper surface. In one embodiment, the second portion 84Bis about parallel to the first portion 84A. Alternatively, the secondportion 84B is angled upwardly toward an intersection of the first sidesurface 29A with the top surface 82. In this manner, the insert 14D canrotate closer to the first arm 28 before the insert stop portion 80 willcontact the second portion 84B of the lower surface.

The second portion 84B of the lower surface is a distance 92B of betweenabout 0.45 inches and about 0.65 inches, or about 0.55 inches from theupper surface 82. In one embodiment, the second portion 84B has a width92C of between about 0.10 inches and about 0.20 inches, or about 0.14inches.

The second portion 84B of the lower surface is optionally recessedtoward the upper surface 82. For example, in one embodiment, a thirdportion 84C of the lower surface extends upwardly from a fourth portion84D of the lower surface 84D to the second portion 84B. In this manner,the second portion 84B is spaced away from the receiving space 36 tomake a space for the stop portion 80 of the insert 14D. In this manner,when the insert 14D is in the second position, the stop portion 80 fitsinto the recess formed to create a substantially circular receivingspace 36 between the first and second arms 28, 32 as generallyillustrated in FIG. 12F.

In one embodiment, the third portion 84C is oriented at an angle 85Crelative to a vertical axis 87. The angle 85C is optionally betweenabout 30° and about 39°, or about 34.8° from the vertical axis. Thethird portion 84C is spaced from the recess 22 by the width 92C of thesecond portion 84B.

In one embodiment, the fourth portion 84D of the lower surface isapproximately parallel to the second portion 84B and to the uppersurface 82. The fourth portion 84D extends in the horizontal dimension86 away from the recess 22 and the third portion 84C to an intersectionwith the first inner surface 31 of the first arm 28.

The fourth portion 84D of the lower surface is a distance 92D of betweenabout 0.50 inches and about 0.70 inches, or about 0.60 inches from theupper surface 82. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the fourth portion 84Dis a distance 92E of between about 0.04 inches and about 0.06 inchesbelow the second portion 84B in the vertical dimension 87.

The recess 22 has a diameter 63 of between about 0.30 inches and about0.32 inches, or about 0.31 inches. In one embodiment, a lower opening orthroat 23 of the recess 22 has a width 66 of between about 0.22 inchesand about 0.26 inches, or about 0.24 inches.

The axis of rotation 16 of the recess 22 is positioned a distance 17A ofbetween about 0.90 inch and about 1.10 inches, or about 1.0 inch fromthe first side 29A of the body 12D. The axis 16 is also a distance 17Bof between about 0.30 inches and 0.50 inches, or about 0.40 inches fromthe upper surface 82. In one embodiment, the body 12D has a width 83 inthe horizontal dimension 86 of between about 1.5 inches and about 1.9inches, or about 1.7 inches.

The inner surface 31 of the first arm 28 has a predetermined radius ofcurvature 89A. Optionally, the radius of curvature 89A is approximatelyequal to the radius of a bulb of a roof joint 56 the clamp 10D isconfigured to engage. In one embodiment the radius of curvature 89A isbetween about 0.41 inches and about 0.45 inches, or about 0.43 inches.

In one embodiment, a finger 38A projects inwardly from the first innersurface 31 of the first arm. The finger 38A has a blunt or roundedexterior surface to limit or prevent damage to panels of a roof joint56. In one embodiment, the finger 38A a radius of curvature of about0.05 inches. In one embodiment, the finger 38A has a width 93A of about0.1 inches.

Optionally, an end 38 of the first arm 28 is oriented at an angle 39A ofbetween about 38° and about 42°, or about 40° to the horizontal axis 86.The end 38 has a width 93B of between about 0.15 inches and about 0.25inches, or about 0.21 inches.

Optionally, one or more grooves 33 are formed in the inner surface 37 ofthe leg 27.

Referring now to FIG. 12H, an expanded view of an insert 14D isprovided. The insert 14D generally includes the protrusion 24 connectedto the second arm 32 by a neck 65. An upper surface 68 extends from afirst side of the neck 65 to an outer surface 67 of the insert. A stopportion 80 extends from a second side of the neck to the second innersurface 35 of the insert. The upper surface 68 and the stop portion 80collectively define a shoulder 96 of the insert 14D.

The neck 65 has a width 61 that is less than the diameter 64 of theprotrusion and less than a width 79 of the shoulder 96. In oneembodiment, the neck width 61 is between about 0.13 inches and about0.18 inches, or about 0.155 inches. In contrast, the shoulder width 79is between about 0.35 inches and about 0.55 inches, or about 0.45inches.

Optionally, the upper surface 68 of the insert is oriented at angle 81Athat is not parallel to the horizontal axis. In one embodiment, theangle 81A is between about 7° and about 11°, or about 9° relative to thehorizontal axis 86.

The stop portion 80 of the insert 14D is angled relative to thehorizontal axis 86. In one embodiment, generally illustrated in FIG.12H, the stop portion 80 is oriented at an angle 81B of between about 3°and about 25°, or about 17° relative to the horizontal axis 86.

The protrusion 24 has a diameter or width 64. In one embodiment, thediameter 64 is at least about 0.25 inches. In another embodiment, thediameter 64 is between about 0.25 inches and about 0.35 inches, or about0.30 inches. The protrusion diameter 64 of the inset 14D optionally isgreater than the protrusion diameter of the insert described inconjunction with FIG. 6. As will be appreciated by one of skill in theart, increasing the protrusion width 64 provides greater strength anddecreases the chance that the clamp will fail due to fracture of theprotrusion.

The second inner surface 35 of the second arm 32 has a predeterminedradius of curvature 89B. The radius of curvature may be the same as, ordifferent from, the radius of curvature 89A of the first arm 28. In oneembodiment the radius of curvature 89B is between about 0.41 inches andabout 0.45 inches, or about 0.43 inches.

In one embodiment, a finger 40A projects inwardly from the second innersurface 35. The finger 40A has a shape adapted to limit or preventdamage to panels of a roof joint 56. In one embodiment, the finger 40Ahas a rounded or convex shape with a radius of curvature of about 0.05inches. In one embodiment, the finger 40A has a width 95A of about 0.1inches.

Optionally, an end 40 of the second arm 32 is oriented at an angle 39Bof between about 43° and about 47°, or about 45° to the horizontal axis86. In one embodiment, the end 40 of the second arm 32 is a distance 94Aof between about 1.0 inch and about 1.4 inches, or about 1.2 inches froma tangent point at an upper end of the protrusion 24. Additionally, theend 40 is a distance 94B from a point tangent to the upper surface 68.Optionally, the distance 94B is between about 0.80 inches and 1.0 inch,or about 0.90 inches.

The end 40 has a predetermined width 95B. In one embodiment, the width95B is between about 0.15 inches and about 0.25 inches, or about 0.21inches.

The clamps 10 of all embodiments of the present disclosure may be formedfrom materials such as various metals, ceramics or plastics based upon,for instance, the particular application. In this regard, theillustrated clamp may be formed from an aluminum which providessufficient load-bearing capability and is also non-corrodible, thusenhancing durability and appearance. As can be appreciated, the aluminumcan be anodized to further enhance the appearance of the roof assembly.Other metals for forming the clamp 10 are stainless steel, zinc, copperor brass alloys. The clamp 10 may also be formed from a combination ofany of the foregoing materials and/or of or including other materials.

The clamp may also be formed by a variety and/or a combination ofmethods, one of which is extrusion. The apertures 18 and 20 may be, forexample, drilled and then tapped. The body of the clamp 10 generally hasa cross-section defined by a slot which receives the roof joint therein.The edges of the body may be chamfered or rounded if desired to reducematerial requirements and enhance the appearance of the roof assembly.

The body 12 and the insert 14 of the clamp 10 can be formed separately.In one embodiment, the clamp body 12 is of a one-piece construction.Similarly, the insert 14 can be formed from one piece of material.Accordingly, the clamp body 12 and/or the insert 14 can be characterizedas lacking joints of any kind. Specifically, in one embodiment, theclamp body 12 and/or the insert 14 are configured so as to have noseparable parts.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-17, a mounting assembly or clamp 140 accordingto another aspect of the present disclosure is generally illustrated.The clamp 140 includes an insert 200 that is pivotably connected to abody 150. The clamp 140 is illustrated in an upright position forinstallation on a panel assembly 110 of a building surface 100 (asgenerally illustrated in FIGS. 16-17). The upright position of the clampand its components is described herein in relation to a first referenceplane 102 and a second reference plane 104. The first reference plane isdefined by a horizontal axis 86 and a longitudinal axis 88. Thislongitudinal axis 88 is illustrated in FIG. 20 and is perpendicular to aplane defined by the horizontal axis 86 and a vertical axis 87. Thesecond reference plane 104 is perpendicular to the first reference plane102 and is defined by the vertical axis 87 and the longitudinal axis 88.

The body 150 of the clamp is of a one-piece or integral construction inone embodiment. For example, the body can be formed as an extrusion froma single piece of an appropriate material, such as a metal or a metalalloy.

Referring to FIG. 13E, the body 150 includes a top 152 and a bottom 154that are oppositely disposed and spaced from one another in the verticaldimension 87. A first side surface 180 of the body is positionedopposite to a second side surface 182. A first end 184 is spaced from anopposite second end 186 (shown in FIG. 13D) in the longitudinaldimension 88 to define a length of the body 150.

The first side surface 180 generally includes a first upper part 230 anda first lower part 232. The first upper part is positioned between thetop 152 and the first lower part. In one embodiment, the first upperpart 230 is oriented approximately parallel to the second referenceplane 104. The first lower part 232 extends downwardly from first upperpart 230. In one configuration, the first lower part 232 is angledoutwardly away from the second reference plane 104. Optionally, an angle233 between the first lower part 232 and the second reference plane 104is between about 5° and about 15°, or about 10°.

The second side surface 182 generally includes a second upper part 234and an optional second lower part 236 (generally illustrated in FIG.13A). The second upper part is positioned between the top 152 and thesecond lower part (when present). Optionally, the second upper part 234is parallel to one or more of the second reference plane 104 and thefirst upper part 230.

The optional second lower part extends downwardly from second upperpart. In one configuration, the second lower part 236 is angled inwardlytoward the second reference plane 104. Optionally, the second lower part236 is about parallel to the first lower part 232. In one embodiment, anangle between the second lower part 236 and the second reference plane104 is between about 5° and about 15° , or about 10°. The second lowerpart 236 is configured to provide relief for a nail strip panel 112 ofthe building section 100 which may bend toward the second lower partwhen the clamp 140 is installed on a rib joint 124.

Referring again to FIG. 13E, in one embodiment, the body 150 has a firstcurved portion 238 with a predetermined first radius of curvaturebetween the first upper part 230 and the top 152. Additionally, oralternatively, the body can have a second curved portion 240 with apredetermined second radius of curvature between the second upper part234 and the top. Optionally, the first and second radii of curvature areapproximately 0.25 inches.

The rounded edges 238, 240 formed by the first and second radii ofcurvature reduce material required to produce the body 150 and thusreduce the weight of the body. This is beneficial to save costs, andalso because the reduced weight of the clamp body transfers less forceto a rib joint 124, thus reducing the potential to damage the buildingsection when a plurality of clamps 140 are positioned on rib joints ofthe building surface. Additionally, reducing the weight of the body 150reduces transportation costs associated with shipping or when movingclamps 140 to a work site.

The bottom 154 of the body 150 includes a slot 160. In oneconfiguration, the slot 160 extends the entire length of the bodybetween its first end 184 and its second end 186. The slot 160 may becharacterized as being at least generally concave. In one embodiment,the slot 160 has a shape that is constant from the first end 184 to thesecond end 186 of the body.

The bottom 154 of the body further includes a first bottom surface 156that is disposed on one side of the slot 160 and a second bottom surface158 that is disposed on an opposite side of the slot 160. Accordingly,the first bottom surface 156 and second bottom surface 158 are spacedapart in the horizontal dimension 86. In one embodiment, the firstbottom surface 156 is generally rounded or convex. Optionally, the firstbottom surface 156 may be generally planar.

In one embodiment, the second bottom surface 158 may optionally be flator generally planar. The second bottom surface has a predetermined width159 of between about 0.25 inches and about 0.35 inches, or about 0.30inches.

Notably, the first bottom surface 156 is spaced further from the firstreference plane 102 than the second bottom surface 158. Morespecifically, the second bottom surface 158 may be disposed within thefirst reference plane 102. In contrast, in one configuration, the firstbottom surface 156 is spaced above the second bottom surface 158 in thevertical dimension 87 such that the first bottom surface 156 is disposedat a higher elevation than the second bottom surface 158 in theinstalled configuration.

In one embodiment, the first bottom surface 156 is spaced a distance174A of between about 1.6 inches and about 2.0 inches, or about 1.86inches from the top 152. The second bottom surface 158 may be spaced adistance 174B of between about 2.1 inches and about 2.4 inches, or about2.25 inches from the top 152.

The first bottom surface 156 is oriented at a predetermined angle 157 tothe first reference plane 102. Optionally, the first bottom surface 156is oriented at an oblique angle to the first reference plane 102. Forexample, the first bottom surface 156 may be oriented at an angle 157 ofbetween approximately 20° and approximately 28°, or about 24° to thefirst reference plane. In one embodiment, the second bottom surface 158is approximately parallel to the first reference plane 102.

Both the size and shape of the slot 160 are configured to accommodateinstallation of the body 150 on rib joints 124 of a variety of differentprofiles produced by various manufacturers. The slot 160 is defined by afirst slot sidewall 162 and a second slot sidewall 172 that are spacedfrom one another in the horizontal dimension 86, and a slot base 168that is spaced from the bottom 154 in the vertical dimension 87. Anopening 196 for a recess 194 intersects the slot 160.

The first slot sidewall 162 is positioned on a first side of the secondreference plane 104. The first slot sidewall may be characterized asproceeding from an intersection with the first bottom surface 156 to anintersection with the recess opening 196. In one configuration, thefirst slot sidewall 162 includes a first section 164 and a secondsection 166, with the second section 166 being disposed between thefirst section 164 and the recess 194. Optionally, different orientationsrelative to the second reference plane 104 are used for the firstsection 164 and the second section 166 of the first slot sidewall 162.

In one configuration, the first section 164 of the first slot sidewall162 is disposed in converging relation to the second reference plane 104proceeding from an intersection with the first bottom surface 156 to anintersection with the second section 166. In one configuration, thefirst section 164 is oriented at an angle 165 of between about 30° andabout 40°, or about 34°, relative to the second refence plane. Anglingthe first section 164 away from the second reference plane is beneficialto provide a space for the distal end 214 of the insert 200. Morespecifically, to position the clamp 140 on a rib joint, the insert ispivoted into a first position proximate to the first slot sidewall 162to maximize a width of the slot 160 as generally illustrated in FIG. 17.

The second section 166 of the first slot sidewall 162 can be angledrelative to the first section 164. In one embodiment, an angle betweenthe first section 164 and the second section 166 is between about 20°and about 30°, or about 24°. Moreover, the second section 166 can beoriented at an angle of about 5° and about 15°, or about 10° relative tothe second reference plane. In one embodiment, the second section 166 isapproximately parallel to the first lower part 232 of the first sidesurface. Optionally, both the first section 164 and the second section166 of the first slot sidewall 162 have a flat or generally planarsurface.

The recess 194 extends along a rotation axis 197 from the first end 184to the second end 186 of the body. The rotation axis is substantiallyparallel to the longitudinal dimension 88. Optionally, the axis 197 ispositioned a distance 199 of between about 0.88 inches and about 1.08inches, or about 0.98 inches from the second side surface 182.

In one configuration, the recess has a generally circular cross sectionand defines a cylindrical opening through the body. The recess 194 has adiameter of between about 0.15 inches and about 0.26 inches, or about0.21 inches.

Optionally, the recess can include one or more flat or faceted surfacesto engage the insert 200. In one embodiment, a detent extends into therecess 194 from the body 150 to retain the insert 200 within the recessor at a predetermined angle relative to the body. Additionally, oralternatively, the recess can include a dimple to receive a detentextending from a protrusion 206 of an insert 200.

In some embodiments, the material of the clamp 140 immediately adjacentto one or both ends of the recess 194 may be peened or otherwise treatedto create one or more protrusions extending into the recess 194. Suchprotrusions may beneficially prevent the insert 200, once positioned inthe recess 194 from sliding out of the end of the recess 194 adjacentthe peening.

The recess opening 196 has a predetermined width 195. Optionally, thewidth 195 is between about 0.15 inches and about 0.17 inches, or about0.163 inches.

In one configuration, the recess opening 196 is positioned between thefirst slot sidewall 162 and the slot base 168. However, other positionsfor the recess opening are contemplated. For instance, in someembodiments, the recess opening 196 is formed in the slot base 168 at aposition that is spaced from the first slot sidewall as well as thesecond slot sidewall. In another example, the recess opening 196 may beformed in the first slot sidewall.

The slot base 168 generally extends between the first and second slotsidewalls. In one configuration, the slot base interconnects the recessopening 196 to the second slot sidewall 172. The slot base 168 isoptionally oriented about parallel to the first reference plane 102.Moreover, the slot base 168 can be oriented about parallel to the top152 of the body. In one embodiment, the slot base 168 is generallyplanar. Additionally, or alternatively, the slot base 168 may be spaceda distance 169 of between about 0.55 inches and about 0.65 inches, orabout 0.60 inches from the stop 152 to define a thickness of the body150.

The second slot sidewall 172 is positioned on a second side of thesecond reference plane 104 opposite to the first slot sidewall. Thesecond slot sidewall can be characterized as proceeding from anintersection with the second bottom surface 158 to an intersection withthe slot base 168. In one embodiment, the second slot sidewall 172 is aflat or a generally planar surface. The second slot sidewall is in afixed position relative to the first slot sidewall 162 and the slot base168. Accordingly, the width and cross-sectional shape of the slot arenot adjustable by altering the orientations of the first and second slotsidewalls.

Optionally, one or more grooves 175 are formed in the second slotsidewall 172. An upper groove 175 may be positioned about 1.1 inch fromthe top 152. In one embodiment, a lower groove 175 is space about 0.06inches from the upper groove.

The second slot sidewall is oriented in converging relation to thesecond reference plane 104 proceeding from an intersection with thesecond bottom surface 158 to an intersection with the slot base 168.Optionally, the second slot sidewall is oriented at an angle 173 ofbetween about 2° and about 25°, or about 13°, relative to the secondreference plane 104. In one configuration, the second slot sidewall isgenerally planar such that the second slot sidewall is approximatelyparallel to a sidewall 128 of a rib joint 124 when the body 150 ispositioned on the rib joint as generally illustrated in FIG. 16. In thismanner, the surface area of the second slot sidewall 172 in contact withthe rib joint 124 is maximized to improve stability of the clamp 140.The engagement of the sidewall 128 of a rib joint with the second slotsidewall 172 prevents unintended or inadvertent rotation or movement ofthe clamp 140 relative to the rib joint.

Optionally a nose 178 projects into the slot 160 from the second slotsidewall 172. The nose 178 is configured to fit within a recess 130 of arib joint 124 when the clamp 140 is installed over the rib joint asgenerally illustrated in FIGS. 16-17. While rib joints come in manydifferent configurations, almost all rib joints have a recess such asthe recess 130 on one side thereof. The nose 178 fits into such recessesand prevents the clamp 140, and in particular the body 150, from liftingup and over the rib joint upon insertion and tightening of a barcomponent 250, such as a threaded fastener described herein. In someembodiments, the way that the nose 178 engages an underside of an outer(or female) portion of the rib join 124 dramatically increases thestrength of the clamp 140.

Referring again to FIG. 13E, the nose 178 is defined by a portion of thesecond bottom surface 158 and an oppositely disposed upper surface ofthe nose 178. The upper surface of the nose is in a converging relationto the first reference plane 102 proceeding from an intersection withthe second slot sidewall 172 and in the direction that the first slotsidewall 162 is spaced from the second slot sidewall 172. In oneembodiment, the upper surface of the nose 178 is oriented at an angle179 of between about 10° and about 30° (or about 22°) relative to thefirst reference plane 102.

A free end of the nose 178 is spaced from the second slot sidewall 172to define a width of between approximately 0.05 inches to approximately0.3 inches, or approximately 0.13 inches. In one configuration, a crosssection of the nose has a generally triangular shape.

Referring now to FIG. 13B, the top 152 includes at least one surfacethat is substantially flat and that is generally parallel to the firstreference plane 102 (e.g., for interfacing with a structure beingattached to the mounting body 150 such as generally illustrated in FIG.17). A connection aperture 192 is formed in the top 152. The connectionaperture 192 is adapted to receive an attachment fastener 254, such as abolt or other fastener. In one embodiment, the connection apertureincludes internal threads to engage threads of the attachment fastener254. Alternatively, the connection aperture 192 is unthreaded. In thismanner, the connection aperture can receive a self-tapping attachmentfastener 254 with a variety of thread geometries. Moreover, leaving theconnection aperture unthreaded reduces manufacturing operations andcosts.

Optionally, the connection aperture 192 can extend through the top 152and through the slot base 168. In this manner, an end of the attachmentfastener 254 may project at least partially into the slot 160.Alternatively, the connection aperture 192 may have a depth that is lessthan the thickness of the slot base 168 such that the connectionaperture 192 does not extend through the slot base 168.

In one embodiment, the connection aperture 192 extends into the top 152in a direction that is about parallel to the vertical dimension 87.Additionally, or alternatively, the connection aperture 192 may beoriented approximately perpendicular to the top 152. Alternatively, inanother embodiment, the connection aperture 192 is not parallel to thevertical dimension 87. In one configuration, two or more connectionapertures 192 are formed in the top 152.

The connection aperture 192 may be offset from the recess 194 in oneembodiment. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13B, anaxis of the connection aperture 192 lies in the reference plane 104. Theaxis is spaced a distance 193 of between about 0.55 inches and 0.75inches, or about 0.65 inches from the second side surface 182.Alternatively, in another embodiment, at least a portion of theconnection aperture 192 intersects the recess 194 as generallyillustrated in FIG. 15. An attachment fastener 254 advanced into theconnection aperture 192 can then contact a protrusion 206 of an insert200 received in the recess. In this manner, after the insert 200 isengaged with a rib joint 124 (as shown in FIG. 16), an attachmentfastener can be advanced into the connection aperture 192 to contact theprotrusion 206 and lock the insert 200 in position to prevent unintendedor inadvertent movement of the insert.

Referring again to FIG. 13B, a bar aperture 190 extends through thefirst side surface 180 of the body 150 and through the first slotsidewall 162 to the slot 160. The bar aperture 190 is configured toreceive a bar component 250 which can be advanced through the baraperture 190 to secure the body 150 to a rib joint 124 as generallyillustrated in FIGS. 16-17. The bar aperture 190 directs the barcomponent 250 to engage the insert 200. In this manner, the barcomponent will not contact a rib joint of the panel assembly 110 andcannot penetrate or damage the rib joint. In contrast, some prior artclamps include an aperture which directs a fastener or set screw intodirect engagement with a rib joint. As will be appreciated by one ofskill in the art, the contact from the fastener can damage the rib jointby denting the rib joint or scratching a surface or coating of the ribjoint. This is not desirable because the damage may accelerate rustingor corrosion of the rib joint and void warranties provided bymanufacturers.

The bar aperture 190 extends along an aperture axis 191. Optionally, theaperture axis 191 is about perpendicular to a portion of the first sidesurface 180. In one configuration, the aperture axis 191 is spaced adistance 188 of between about 0.66 inches and about 0.86 inches, orabout 0.76 inches from the first bottom surface 156.

The aperture axis 191 is oriented at a predetermined angle relative tothe first reference plane 102. More specifically, the aperture axis 191can be disposed in converging relation to the first reference plane 102proceeding from the first side surface 180 of the body 150 to the firstslot sidewall 162. As such, when advanced in the direction of theaperture axis 190, the bar component 250 proceeds both horizontally (inthe horizontal dimension 86) and downwardly (in the vertical dimension87) to engage the insert 200 when securing the clamp 140 to a rib joint124. The angled orientation of the aperture axis 191 in the body 150beneficially allows a drill, screwdriver, or other device used toadvance the bar component 250 (such as a threaded fastener) in the baraperture 190 to be held at an obtuse angle relative to the buildingsurface 100 from which the rib joint 124 extends. The angled orientationof the aperture axis 191 thus increases the clearance between the drill,screwdriver, or other device and thus facilitates use of the drill,screwdriver, or other device to advance the bar component 250 in the baraperture 190.

The aperture axis 191 may be oriented at an angle of between about 5°and about 25° relative to the first reference plane 102. Optionally, theangle of the aperture axis 191 is about 10° relative to the firstreference place. In one configuration, the aperture axis 191 isapproximately perpendicular to the second section 166 of the first slotsidewall 162.

The insert 200 is used in conjunction with the body 150 to allow theclamp 140 to be installed on a variety of rib joints 124 with differentprofiles. More specifically, the insert 200 beneficially adjusts thewidth of the slot 160 to fit and rib joints of various profiles andsizes. The insert 200 is of a one-piece construction. In one embodiment,the insert is an extrusion. Alternatively, the insert may be formed as acasting, by machining, or other methods known to those of skill in theart. The insert may be formed of any suitable metal, such as aluminum,stainless steel, zinc, copper or brass alloys and combinations thereof.

The insert 200 is adapted to pivot or rotate in response to a forcereceived from a bar component 250 advanced through the bar aperture 190.The bar component presses the insert into engagement with a sidewall 126of a rib joint 124 to affix the clamp 140 to the rib joint as generallyillustrated in FIGS. 16-17. The insert 200 of embodiments of the presentdisclosure generates a clamping pressure against the sidewall 126 thatis continuous and evenly distributed along the entire length of theinsert. By spreading the load along the length of the insert, damage tothe rib joint is avoided and inadvertent or unintended movement of theclamp 140 relative to the rib joint is reduced.

Referring now to FIGS. 14A-14B, the insert 200 generally comprises afirst end 202 and an opposing second end 204, a protrusion 206, and anarm 208 extending downwardly from the protrusion to a distal end 214.The insert 200 has a height 215 of between about 1.45 inches and about1.65 inches, or about 1.56 inches.

A length of the insert is defined by the distance between the first andsecond ends 202, 204. Optionally, the insert length is about equal tothe length of the body 150. However, in one configuration, the insertlength is less than the body length as generally illustrated in FIG.13D.

The protrusion 206 is configured to be received within the recess 194 ofthe body 150 with the arm 208 extending out of the recess opening 196.The insert 200 can be pivotally interconnected to the body 150 byaligning the protrusion 206 with an open end of the recess at either thefirst end 184 or the second end 186 of the body and then sliding theinsert protrusion along the rotation axis 197 into the recess.

In one embodiment, the protrusion 206 has a cross-sectional profile thatis about circular. Accordingly, the protrusion 206 can be characterizedas having a shape that is generally cylindrical. In one embodiment, avertical cross-section of the protrusion is generally symmetric relativeto the second reference plane 104 when aligned as shown in FIG. 14A.Other shapes of the protrusion are contemplated. In one embodiment, adiameter 207 of the protrusion is between about 0.15 inches and about0.25 inches, or about 0.20 inches.

Optionally, the protrusion 206 includes a detent (not illustrated) whichprojects outwardly. The detent can engage a corresponding surface withinthe recess to maintain the insert 200 in one or more positions relativeto the body 150. Additionally, or alternatively, the protrusion 206 caninclude a flat surface or a recess to engage a detent extending into therecess 194 from the body 150.

In another embodiment, a depression or groove is formed in theprotrusion. The groove may extend around the rotation axis 197. In thismanner, an optional detent of the body 150 may be biased into the recess194 to engage the groove of the protrusion 206.

The arm 208 has a first side surface 210 and a second side surface 212.In one configuration, the arm 208 is generally linear between theprotrusion 206 and the distal end 214. Accordingly, the first and secondside surfaces 210, 212 are generally planar in one embodiment. Moreover,the first and second side surfaces 210, 212 are optionally approximatelyparallel.

The arm 208 has a predetermined thickness 209. Optionally, the thicknessis between about 0.09 inches and about 0.11 inches, or about 0.10inches. In one embodiment, the first side surface 210 includes one ormore groves 211 which are generally illustrated in FIG. 14A.

The distal end 214 of the arm 208 is optionally asymmetric about thesecond reference plane 104. In one embodiment, the distal end 214includes a first projection 216 and an opposing second projection 220.

A cross-sectional shape of the first projection is different than thecross-sectional shape of the second projection. The first projection 216includes a first sidewall 218 which extends away from the secondreference plane 104 in the horizontal dimension 86. The first projection216 extends a predetermined distance from the first side surface 210 todefine a width 217 of the first projection. The width 217 is optionallybetween about 0.050 inches and 0.060 inches, or about 0.054 inches. Inone embodiment, an angle 219 between the first sidewall 218 and thefirst side surface 210 (and the second reference plane 104) is betweenabout 15° and about 25°, or about 21°.

The second projection 220 has a second sidewall 222 that extends awayfrom the second reference plane 104 in the horizontal dimension.Optionally, an angle 223 between the second sidewall 222 and the secondside surface 212 is from about 20° to about 30°, or about 24°.

The first sidewall 218 and the second sidewall 222 may have differentlengths. In one embodiment, the first sidewall has a first length thatis less than a second length of the second sidewall.

An end portion 224 of the distal end 214 connects the first sidewall 218to the second sidewall 222. In one embodiment, the end portion 224 inapproximately planar. The end portion 224 is oriented at a predeterminedangle 225 to the horizontal axis 86. Optionally, the angle 225 isbetween about 10° and about 18°, or about 14°.

In one embodiment, a first curved portion 228A extends between the firstsidewall 218 and the end portion 224. Additionally, or alternatively, asecond curved portion 228B may extend between the second sidewall 222and the end portion 224. The curved portions 228 generally provide asmooth surface to contact a sidewall 126 of a rib joint 124 withoutscratching or damaging the rib joint.

In one embodiment, the first curved portion 228A has a radius ofcurvature of about 0.07 inches. The second curved portion 228B has aradius of curvature of about 0.14 inches.

When the first projection 216 or the second projection 220 are movedinto engagement with a sidewall 126 of a rib joint 124 as describedherein, the rounded or curved surfaces of the distal end 214 preventdamage to the rib joint. More specifically, the surfaces of the distalend 214 are configured to prevent scratching of the material of (or acoating on) the rib joint 124. In contrast, some clamps are known withinserts that have corners or other surfaces that can scratch and causedamage to a rib joint.

In one embodiment, one or more of the first side surface 210 and thesecond side surface 212 of the insert 200 includes an optional dimple226 that is alignable with the bar aperture 190. Dimples 226A, 226B ofembodiments of the present disclosure are generally illustrated in FIGS.16-17. As illustrated, when a bar component 250 is advanced in the baraperture 190, a distal end 252 of the bar component will engage thedimple. In this manner, the bar component locks the insert relative tothe recess 194 and prevents unintended movement of the insert protrusion206 along the rotation axis 197 and/or toward the first or second ends184, 186 of the body.

Referring now to FIG. 16, the clamp 140 of FIGS. 13-15 is illustratedengaged to a rib joint 124 of a building section 100. The buildingsection includes an adjacent pair of nail strip panels 112 which areinterconnected to form the rib joint 124. The rib joint includes atleast one interior space and may be characterized as “hollow”.

A first nail strip panel 112A is positioned on an appropriate supportstructure (e.g., a deck or decking) and a plurality of fasteners may bedirected through a nail strip flange 114 to secure the nail strip panel112A to the underlying support structure.

A second nail strip panel 112B is then positioned such that its ribjoint section 120 is positioned over a rib joint section 122 of thefirst nail strip panel 112A that is already secured to the underlyingsupport structure to form a rib joint 124. As such, a base section 118Bof the second-installed nail strip panel 112B is disposed over the nailstrip flange 114 of the first nail strip panel 112A.

Each rib joint 124 of the panel assembly 110 includes a first or leftrib sidewall 126, a second (right) rib sidewall 128, and an upper end132 (e.g., an uppermost end of the nail strip seam rib 124). The leftrib sidewall 126 and the right rib sidewall 128 are spaced from oneanother at least generally in the horizontal dimension 86, while theupper end 132 is spaced from the base sections 118 of the correspondingnail strip panels 112 at least generally in the vertical dimension 87.The right rib sidewall 128 includes a recess 130 that is disposedadjacent to an adjacent base section 118A. In the illustratedembodiment, the recess 130 is defined by a space between the first seamrib section 120 of the second nail strip panel 112B and the base section118A of the first nail strip panel 112A.

There are many different configurations and profiles of nail strippanels that may be used to define the panel assembly 110 for thebuilding section 100. It should be appreciated that a profile of a givennail strip panel may be different compared to a profile of another nailstrip panel with regard to geometry, dimensions, or both. As such, theleft rib sidewall 126, the right rib sidewall 128, or both may bedisposed in different orientations from that shown in FIG. 16. However,the clamp 140 includes a body 150 and an insert 200 configured toaccommodate panel assemblies 110 utilizing a variety of profiles definedby nail strip panels 112 from various manufactures.

To accommodate rib joints 124 of different shapes and sizes, the insert200 is adapted to be reversable. Specifically, the insert protrusion 206can be positioned in the body recess 194 such that either the first sidesurface 210 or the second side surface 212 is proximate to the firstslot sidewall 162. A user can interconnect the insert 200 to the body150 with the first side surface 210 proximate to the first slot sidewall162 based on the geometry of a first rib joint 124A and as generallyillustrated in FIG. 16. In this manner, the second projection 220 of theinsert 200 will engage the left sidewall 126 of the rib joint 124A. Asthe bar component 250 is advanced into the bar aperture 190, the insert200 rotates away from the first slot sidewall 162 and against the leftsidewall 126 of the rib joint and forces the right sidewall 128 of therib joint against the second slot sidewall 172.

The bar component 250 used by the clamp 140 exerts a force on the insert200 such that the rib joint 124 is compressed between the insert 200 andthe second slot sidewall 172 of the body 150. In contrast, a drawback ofclamps that do not include an insert such as the insert 200 is that setscrews or other fasteners used therewith may puncture or scratch the ribjoint 124 as the set screws or other fasteners are tightened, and beforesufficient clamping force is achieved. In addition to reducing theeffectiveness of such clamps, unnecessary holes in the building surfaceare undesirable both for functional and aesthetic reasons. For example,a puncture or scratch may allow water to corrode the building surfaceand/or infiltrate into the rib joint 124. The insert 200 of the presentdisclosure beneficially distributes the force exerted by the barcomponent 250 across a greater area of the rib joint 124, thus greatlyreducing the risk of puncturing a hole in the rib joint 124. The insert200 achieves the desired amount of clamping force through increasedfriction resulting from the pressure of the insert 200 against the ribjoint 124, and thus enables the clamp 140 to remain in place whilereducing or eliminating any need to achieve a mechanical interlockbetween the mounting assembly 140 and the rib joint 124 (i.e. bydeforming the rib joint 124) to hold the clamp 140 in place. In at leastsome embodiments, the insert 200 will be spaced from the first slotsidewall 162 of the mounting body 150 when the clamp 140 is in itsinstalled configuration.

Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17B, the clamp 140 of FIGS. 13-15 is shownpositioned on a second rib joint 124B with a profile that is differentthan the profile of the first rib joint 124A. Notably, the insert 200 ispositioned in the body recess 194 opposite to the orientation shown inFIG. 16 and such that the second side surface 212 is proximate to thefirst slot sidewall 162. Accordingly, when a bar component 250 isadvanced through the bar aperture 190, the first projection 216 of theinsert will engage a left sidewall 126 of the rib joint 124B. The forcefrom the insert 200 presses a right sidewall 128 of the rib jointagainst the second slot sidewall 172.

As shown in FIG. 17A, in one embodiment, the second side surface 212 andthe second sidewall 222 of the insert have shapes that generallycorrespond to the shapes of the respective first and second sections164, 166 of the first slot sidewall 162. More specifically, before thebar component 250 is advanced through the bar aperture, the second sidesurface 212 of the insert may be positioned in a substantially parallelrelation with the second section 166 of first slot sidewall 162.Additionally, or alternatively, the second sidewall 222 of the insertsecond projection 220 can be positioned in a substantially parallelrelation with the first section 164 of first slot sidewall 162.

FIG. 17A also illustrates a mounting assembly 260 interconnected to theclamp 140. The mounting assembly 260 generally includes a mounting plate262 connected to the body 150 by a threaded shaft (not illustrated)extending from a stanchion 264 that engages the connection aperture 192.A clamp 266 is interconnected to the stanchion 264 by a fastener 268.Other objects and mounting assemblies of different configurations may beinterconnected to the clamp 140. Examples of mounting assemblies thatmay be used with the clamp of all embodiments of the present disclosureare described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,903,785 which is incorporated hereinby reference.

As illustrated in FIG. 17B, in some embodiments, the arm 208 of theinsert 200 may bend as the bar component 250 is advanced through the baraperture 190 and applies a force to the insert. As the arm is bent bythe force from the bar component 250, one of the side surfaces facingthe aperture 190 (the second side surface 212 in the example of FIG.17B) changes from a first shape that is generally linear to a secondshape that is concave. The other side surface (the first side surface210) changes from the first shape to a convex shape. In this manner, theside surface facing the sidewall 126 of the rib joint 124 generallyforms to the shape of the sidewall to prevent damage to the sidewall.

Moreover, as generally illustrated in FIG. 17B, the rib joint sidewall126 facing the insert 200 may also change from an initial shape that isgenerally planar (as illustrated in FIG. 17A) to an engaged shape thatis concave as shown in FIG. 17B. The convex side surface 210 of theinsert 200 can fit into the concave sidewall 126 to increase the holdingstrength of the clamp 140. For example, engagement between the concavesidewall 126 and the convex side surface 210 may increase the forcerequired to lift the clamp 140 off of the rib joint 124B.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-19, a clamp 140A of another embodiment of thepresent disclosure is generally illustrated. The clamp 140A is similarto the clamp 140 described in conjunction with FIGS. 13-17 and has manyof the same or similar features. For example, the insert 200A can beinterconnected to the body 150A such that either the first side surface210 or the second side surface 212 is proximate to the first slotsidewall 162.

Notably, the insert 200A has a distal end 214 with a different shapecompared to the insert of FIG. 14. In one embodiment, the first sidesurface 210 extends to a first projection 216. However, the first sidesurface 210 does not include a first sidewall as in the insert 200 ofFIG. 14. In addition, the first projection 216 has a cross sectionalshape of a semicircle.

The protrusion 206 of the insert 200A can be positioned in the bodyrecess 194 with the first side surface 210 proximate to the first slotsidewall 162 (as generally illustrated in FIG. 18). Alternatively, toengage a rib joint 124B with a different size or geometry, the insert ispositioned in the body recess 194 with the second side surface 212proximate to the first slot sidewall 162 as shown in FIG. 19. The firstsection 164 of the first slot sidewall 162 has a shape that generallycorresponds to the second side surface 212 of the insert (as generallyshown in FIG. 19).

Yet another embodiment of a clamp 140B of the present disclosure isgenerally illustrated in FIGS. 20-21. The clamp includes a body 150B andan insert 200B which are similar to the bodies and inserts of the clampsdescribed in conjunction with FIGS. 13-19. Moreover, the clamp 140B mayinclude any of the elements as well as the geometry of the clamps ofother embodiments described herein.

The first bottom surface 156 is closer to the first reference plane 102than the second bottom surface 158. In one embodiment, the first slotsidewall 162 defines a plane between the first bottom surface 156 andthe slot base 168.

In another embodiment, the slot base 168 is not parallel to the firstreference plane. More specifically, the slot base 168 extends from thefirst slot sidewall 162 upwardly away from the first reference plane toan intersection with the second slot sidewall 172.

Optionally, the recess opening 196 includes at least one stop 198. Thestop 198 projects into the slot 160 from the slot base 168. The stop 198is configured to engage the arm 208 of the insert 200B to limit rotationof the insert to a predetermined amount. In one embodiment, the body150B includes one or more of a first stop 198A proximate to the firstslot sidewall and a second stop 198B proximate to the second slotsidewall 172.

The insert 200B includes a first projection 216 and a second projection220. In one embodiment, the arm 208 of the insert has a length that isgreater than a height of the first slot sidewall 162. Accordingly,before the insert 200 pivots toward the second slot sidewall, the firstprojection 216 can extend past the first bottom surface 156 as generallyshown in FIG. 21.

In one embodiment, a recess or dimple 226 is formed in the arm 208 ofthe insert. The dimple is formed at a position of the arm that alignswith the bar aperture 190 when the protrusion 206 of the insert ispositioned in the body recess 190. In this manner, a bar component 250advanced through the bar aperture 190 will engage the dimple 226 andprevent movement of the protrusion along the axis of rotation 197 of therecess 194.

Clamps according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be used tohelp strengthen a raised roof joint between two roof panels againstforces imposed on the joint as a result of wind blowing upward againstthe roof panels.

To provide additional background, context, and to further satisfy thewritten description requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112, the followingreferences are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties:U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,718,718; 7,758,011; 8,844,234; 8,910,928; 9,611,652;9,920,958; 10,077,562; U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2018/0128295, and U.S. Pat.App. Pub. 2020/0191180.

Ranges have been discussed and used within the forgoing description. Oneskilled in the art would understand that any sub-range within the statedrange would be suitable, as would any number or value within the broadrange, without deviating from the disclosure. Additionally, where themeaning of the term “about” as used herein would not otherwise beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the term “about” should beinterpreted as meaning within plus or minus five percent of the statedvalue.

Throughout the present disclosure, various embodiments have beendisclosed. Components described in connection with one embodiment arethe same as or similar to like-numbered components described inconnection with another embodiment.

Although the present disclosure describes components and functionsimplemented in the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations withreference to particular standards and protocols, the aspects,embodiments, and/or configurations are not limited to such standards andprotocols. Other similar standards and protocols not mentioned hereinare in existence and are considered to be included in the presentdisclosure. Moreover, the standards and protocols mentioned herein andother similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein areperiodically superseded by faster or more effective equivalents havingessentially the same functions. Such replacement standards and protocolshaving the same functions are considered equivalents included in thepresent disclosure.

The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/orconfigurations, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/orapparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, includingvarious aspects, embodiments, configurations embodiments,subcombinations, and/or subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art willunderstand how to make and use the disclosed aspects, embodiments,and/or configurations after understanding the present disclosure. Thepresent disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/orconfigurations, includes providing devices and processes in the absenceof items not depicted and/or described herein or in various aspects,embodiments, and/or configurations hereof, including in the absence ofsuch items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g.,for improving performance, achieving ease and/or reducing cost ofimplementation.

The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustrationand description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosureto the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing DetailedDescription, for example, various features of the disclosure are groupedtogether in one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations forthe purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the aspects,embodiments, and/or configurations of the disclosure may be combined inalternate aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations other than thosediscussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted asreflecting an intention that the claims require more features than areexpressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claimsreflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a singleforegoing disclosed aspect, embodiment, and/or configuration. Thus, thefollowing claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description,with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodimentof the disclosure.

Moreover, though the description has included description of one or moreaspects, embodiments, and/or configurations and certain variations andmodifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications arewithin the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill andknowledge of those in the art, after understanding the presentdisclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternativeaspects, embodiments, and/or configurations to the extent permitted,including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures,functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not suchalternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions,ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publiclydedicate any patentable subject matter.

Any of the steps, functions, and operations discussed herein can beperformed continuously and automatically.

What is claimed is:
 1. A clamp, comprising: a body including: a firstend spaced from a second end in a longitudinal dimension; a top and abottom that are spaced from one another in a vertical dimension, thebottom including a first bottom surface and a second bottom surface; afirst side surface and a second side surface that are spaced from oneanother in a horizontal dimension; a slot which extends between thefirst and second ends, is located between the first side surface and thesecond side surface, and extends into the bottom, the slot including: afirst slot sidewall that extends inwardly from the first bottom surface;a second slot sidewall that extends inwardly from the second bottomsurface; a slot base that extends between the first slot sidewall andthe second slot sidewall; and a nose that extends into the slot from thesecond slot sidewall, wherein the second slot sidewall is fixed relativeto the first slot sidewall and the slot base; a recess that extendsbetween the first and second ends along a rotation axis that is aboutparallel to the longitudinal dimension, the recess including an openingto the slot; and an aperture that extends through the first side surfaceto the slot, the aperture extending along an axis that is oriented at anoblique angle to the vertical dimension; an insert including: a firstend spaced from a second end in the longitudinal dimension; an armextending between a protrusion and a distal end of the insert; a firstside surface of the arm with a first projection; and a second sidesurface of the arm with a second projection, wherein the protrusion ispositionable within the recess of the body such that one of the firstside surface and the second side surface of the arm is facing the firstslot sidewall; and a bar component disposable in the aperture to engagethe insert and pivot the distal end of the insert about the rotationaxis from a first position proximate to the first slot sidewall to asecond position spaced from the first slot sidewall.
 2. The clamp ofclaim 1, wherein the protrusion of the insert has a circularcross-sectional shape that complements a circular cross-sectional shapeof the recess.
 3. The clamp of claim 1, wherein the recess openingintersects the first slot sidewall and the slot base.
 4. The clamp ofclaim 1, wherein the first and second side surfaces of the arm aregenerally planar and approximately parallel.
 5. The clamp of claim 1,wherein the rotation axis is about perpendicular to the first and secondends of the body.
 6. The clamp of claim 1, wherein the protrusion of theinsert is positioned in the recess of the body with the first sidesurface of the arm facing toward the first slot sidewall.
 7. The clampof claim 1, wherein the protrusion of the insert is positioned in therecess of the body with the second side surface of the arm facing towardthe first slot sidewall.
 8. The clamp of claim 7, wherein the secondside surface of the insert is positionable in a substantially parallelrelation with a second section of first slot sidewall.
 9. The clamp ofclaim 8, wherein a second sidewall of the second projection of the ofthe insert is positionable in a substantially parallel relation with afirst section of first slot sidewall, and wherein the second section ispositioned between the first section and the slot base.
 10. The clamp ofclaim 1, wherein the first slot sidewall comprises a first section and asecond section with the second section of the first slot sidewall beinglocated between the first section of the first slot sidewall and theslot base in the vertical dimension, and wherein the first section ofthe first slot sidewall and the second section of the first slotsidewall are each disposed in different orientations relative to thevertical dimension.
 11. The clamp of claim 10, wherein the first sidesurface includes a first upper portion and a second lower portion, thesecond lower portion oriented: at an oblique angle to the top; and aboutparallel to the second section of the first slot sidewall.
 12. The clampof claim 1, wherein the nose extends from a lower end of the second slotsidewall and into the slot.
 13. The clamp of claim 12, wherein thesecond slot sidewall is generally planar between an upper portion of thenose and the slot base.
 14. The clamp of claim 13, wherein the secondslot sidewall is oriented at an oblique angle to the first slot sidewalland to the slot base.
 15. The clamp of claim 1, wherein the insertincludes a dimple that is alignable with the aperture of the body. 16.The clamp of claim 1, wherein the aperture has an internal thread andthe bar component has an outer thread that complements the internalthread of the aperture.
 17. The clamp of claim 1, wherein the bodyfurther comprises an attachment aperture that extends into the top. 18.The clamp of claim 1, wherein the body has only one recess to receive aprotrusion of an insert.
 19. The clamp of claim 1, wherein at least oneof the first side surface and the second side surface of the armincludes a deformable portion with a recess, the deformable portionalignable with the aperture of the body.
 20. A method of securing aclamp to a rib joint, comprising: positioning a body of the clampproximate to the rib joint such that a nose of the body projects into arecess of the rib joint, the body including: a first end spaced from asecond end in a longitudinal dimension; a top and a bottom that arespaced from one another in a vertical dimension, the bottom including afirst bottom surface and a second bottom surface; a first side surfaceand a second side surface that are spaced from one another in ahorizontal dimension; a slot which extends between the first and secondends, is located between the first side surface and the second sidesurface, and extends into the bottom, the slot including: a first slotsidewall that extends inwardly from the first bottom surface; a secondslot sidewall that extends inwardly from the second bottom surface; aslot base that extends between the first slot sidewall and the secondslot sidewall; and the nose that extends into the slot from the secondslot sidewall, wherein the rib joint is positioned in the slot; a recessthat extends between the first and second ends along a rotation axisthat is about parallel to the longitudinal dimension, the recessincluding an opening to the slot; and an aperture that extends throughthe first side surface to the slot, the aperture extending along an axisthat is oriented at a predetermined angle to the vertical dimension;positioning a protrusion of an insert within the recess such that one ofa first side surface and a second side surface of the insert is facingthe first slot sidewall of the body; and advancing a bar componentthrough the aperture into engagement with the one of the first sidesurface and the second side surface of the insert that is facing thefirst slot sidewall of the body, wherein a distal end of the inertpivots from a first position to a second position to engage a sidewallof the rib joint.